How To Get Rid Of Cicadas Home Remedies ~ future.housing.org.uk

Identify and Locate Cicada Infestations

Cicadas are large, noisy insects that can be a nuisance when they emerge in large numbers. They can damage plants and trees, and their loud singing can be disruptive. If you are experiencing a cicada infestation, there are a few things you can do to get rid of them.

Identifying Cicadas

Cicadas are typically brown or black in color, with clear wings. They have large heads and eyes, and their bodies are covered in a hard exoskeleton. Cicadas are known for their loud singing, which they use to attract mates.

Locating Cicada Infestations

Cicadas typically live in trees and shrubs. They lay their eggs in the soil, and the nymphs hatch and live underground for several years before emerging as adults. Cicadas emerge in large numbers every 13 or 17 years, depending on the species.

To locate a cicada infestation, look for the following signs:

Sign	Description
Holes in the ground	Cicada nymphs live underground for several years before emerging as adults. The holes in the ground are where the nymphs emerge.
Damaged plants and trees	Cicadas can damage plants and trees by sucking the sap from their leaves.
Loud singing	Cicadas are known for their loud singing, which they use to attract mates.

If you see any of these signs, you may have a cicada infestation.

Create Cicada Traps with Light and Water

Cicadas are attracted to light and water, so you can use this to create simple traps. One method is to fill a bucket or tub with water and place it under a bright light. The cicadas will be drawn to the light and fall into the water, where they will drown.

Another way to trap cicadas is to use a black light. Black lights emit ultraviolet light, which is particularly attractive to cicadas. You can place a black light in a strategic location and place a bucket or tub of water nearby. The cicadas will be attracted to the light and fall into the water.

Create a Cicada Trap with Light and Water

Materials you’ll need:

1. A bucket or tub: Choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the number of cicadas you expect to catch.
2. A light source: A bright light, such as a floodlight or a black light, will attract the cicadas.
3. A ramp or ladder: The cicadas need a way to climb into the bucket or tub. You can create a ramp or ladder using a piece of wood or a stack of books.
4. Water: Fill the bucket or tub with water to a depth of about 2 inches.

Steps:

1. Place the bucket or tub in a strategic location. The location should be in an area where cicadas are likely to be active, such as near a tree or a light source.
2. Position the light source so that it shines into the bucket or tub. The light will attract the cicadas.
3. Create a ramp or ladder so that the cicadas can climb into the bucket or tub. The ramp or ladder should be long enough and wide enough to allow the cicadas to crawl up easily.
4. Wait for the cicadas to fall into the trap. The cicadas will be attracted to the light and will fall into the water, where they will drown.

Tips:

1. Check the trap regularly and remove any cicadas that have been caught.
2. Empty the bucket or tub and refill it with water as needed.
3. Dispose of the drowned cicadas by burying them or composting them.

Repel Cicadas with Essential Oils

Essential oils are a natural and effective way to repel cicadas. The strong scent of these oils can deter cicadas from entering your home or yard.

4. How to Use Essential Oils to Repel Cicadas

There are several ways to use essential oils to repel cicadas.

Method	Instructions
Diffusion	Add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser and let it run for several hours. This will disperse the scent of the oil throughout the area, repelling cicadas.
Topical application	Dilute a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil. Apply the mixture to your skin, clothing, or around doorways and windows. This will create a barrier that cicadas will avoid crossing.
Spray	Mix a few drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle. Shake well and spray around your home or yard. This will create a temporary repellent that will deter cicadas from entering.

Some of the most effective essential oils for repelling cicadas include:

Lemongrass
Peppermint
Tea tree
Eucalyptus
Lavender

When using essential oils to repel cicadas, it is important to follow the instructions carefully. Some oils can be toxic if ingested or applied to the skin undiluted. It is also important to keep essential oils out of reach of children and pets.

Employ Vinegar and Soap Spray

Combining vinegar and soap creates a potent repellent for cicadas. The acidic nature of vinegar disrupts their communication and navigation, while the soap interferes with their breathing and mobility. Mix equal parts white vinegar and dish soap in a spray bottle and shake thoroughly. Spray the solution directly on cicadas and vegetation near their habitat.

Tips for Effective Application:

Step	Instructions
1	Apply the spray during the morning or evening hours when cicadas are less active.
2	Target the areas where cicadas are most concentrated, such as trees, shrubs, and lawns.
3	Spray thoroughly, ensuring that both the cicadas and the vegetation are covered.
4	Repeat the application every few hours as needed, especially after rainfall.
5	Use a sprayer with a fine mist setting to maximize coverage and minimize waste.

Utilize Ammonia Solutions

Ammonia is a potent substance that can deter cicadas from entering your home. To use ammonia as a home remedy, follow these steps:

Mix one part household ammonia with four parts water in a bowl or bucket.
Dip a cloth or sponge into the ammonia solution.
Wipe down the areas where cicadas tend to enter your home, such as windowsills, doorsteps, and cracks in the walls.
Leave the ammonia solution to dry on the surfaces.
Rinse the surfaces with clean water to remove any residual ammonia.
Reapply the ammonia solution as needed to maintain its repellent effect.

Tips for Using Ammonia Solutions

Ammonia should only be used in well-ventilated areas, as it can cause respiratory irritation if inhaled in large quantities.
Avoid getting ammonia on your skin or eyes, as it can cause irritation and damage.
Test the ammonia solution on an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface to ensure that it does not discolor or damage the material.

Here is a table summarizing the steps for using ammonia solutions to get rid of cicadas:

Step	Action
1	Mix ammonia and water.
2	Dip a cloth or sponge into the solution.
3	Wipe down entry points.
4	Let the solution dry.
5	Rinse the surfaces with water.
6	Reapply as needed.

Deter Cicadas with Garlic

Cicadas can be a nuisance with their incessant chirping and damage to plants. Fortunately, there are natural remedies that can help deter them from your home and garden:

Garlic has a strong odor that cicadas find repugnant. To use garlic as a repellent, you can:

Plant garlic around your yard: Plant garlic cloves in your flowerbeds, vegetable gardens, and around the perimeter of your property. The smell of garlic will deter cicadas from entering these areas.
Create a garlic spray: Boil 10-15 garlic cloves in 2 cups of water for 15 minutes. Strain the liquid and mix it with 1 gallon of water. Spray the solution around your yard, plants, and any areas where cicadas are congregating.
Hang garlic cloves in trees and shrubs: Tie 3-4 peeled garlic cloves in a cheesecloth bag and hang them from the branches of trees and shrubs. The scent of garlic will repel cicadas from these areas.
Sprinkle garlic powder around your yard: Sprinkle a thin layer of garlic powder around your yard and garden. The powder will create a barrier that cicadas will avoid crossing.
Use garlic essential oil: Diffuse garlic essential oil in your home or apply it to cotton balls and place them around areas where cicadas are entering.
Plant garlic chives: Garlic chives are a type of garlic that also repels cicadas. Plant garlic chives in your garden or around your yard to create a natural deterrent.
Crush garlic and scatter it around your yard: Crush 10-15 garlic cloves and scatter them around the perimeter of your property and any areas where cicadas are present. The crushed garlic will release a strong odor that will deter cicadas from entering these areas.

Protect Plants with Physical Barriers

Cicadas can cause significant damage to plants by feeding on their leaves and stems. To protect your plants from these pests, you can use physical barriers. These methods can be easy to implement and effective in preventing cicadas from reaching and harming your plants. Here are some specific physical barriers that you can consider:

1. Row Covers

Row covers are lightweight fabric covers that can be placed over plants to create a physical barrier between them and cicadas. These covers allow sunlight and water to reach the plants but prevent insects from getting through.

2. Insect Netting

Insect netting is a fine-mesh material that can be wrapped around plants or placed over them. It acts as a physical barrier, preventing cicadas from landing on or reaching the plants.

3. Sticky Traps

Sticky traps can be placed near plants to attract and trap cicadas. The traps have a sticky surface that cicadas get stuck on when they land, preventing them from reaching the plants.

4. Burlap or Cardboard Wraps

Burlap or cardboard wraps can be used to create a temporary physical barrier around the base of trees or shrubs. These wraps prevent cicadas from crawling up the plants and reaching the leaves.

5. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder that can be sprinkled around plants to create a physical barrier. Cicadas have difficulty moving through diatomaceous earth, and it can also dehydrate them.

6. Aluminum Foil

Aluminum foil can be wrapped around the base of plants or placed around them to create a reflective barrier. Cicadas dislike the light reflected by the foil, which can deter them from approaching the plants.

7. Mulch

A layer of mulch around plants can help to create a physical barrier and deter cicadas. Cicadas have difficulty moving through thick mulch, and it can also help to retain moisture in the soil.

8. Planting Resistant Varieties

Certain plant varieties are naturally more resistant to cicada damage. These varieties have thicker leaves or other characteristics that make them less attractive to cicadas. If possible, consider planting these varieties in areas where cicadas are known to be a problem.

Remove Cicada Eggs from Soil and Grass

Cicada eggs can be difficult to remove from soil and grass, but there are a few home remedies that can help. Here are 9 steps to get rid of cicada eggs:

1. **Identify the eggs.** Cicada eggs are small, white, and oval-shaped. They are typically found in clusters in the soil or grass.

2. **Dig up the eggs.** Use a shovel or trowel to dig up the eggs and the surrounding soil. Be careful not to damage the eggs.

3. **Place the eggs in a bucket of soapy water.** The soapy water will kill the eggs.

4. **Let the eggs soak for 24 hours.** After 24 hours, the eggs should be dead.

5. **Dispose of the eggs.** Pour the soapy water and eggs down the drain or into a garbage can.

6. **Rinse the area where the eggs were found.** Use a hose or watering can to rinse the area where the eggs were found. This will help to remove any remaining eggs or soap residue.

7. **Apply a layer of mulch to the area.** Mulch will help to prevent new eggs from being laid in the area.

8. **Repeat steps 1-7 as needed.** You may need to repeat these steps several times to completely get rid of the cicada eggs.

9. **Be patient.** It may take some time to completely get rid of the cicada eggs. However, by following these steps, you can eventually remove them from your soil and grass.

Consult with Pest Control Professionals

If the above home remedies prove ineffective, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance. Pest control companies possess specialized techniques, equipment, and chemical treatments designed specifically to eliminate cicadas and prevent their recurrence. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your property, identify entry points, and determine the most appropriate course of action based on your specific situation.

Here are some key factors to consider when hiring a pest control professional:

Licensing and Certification: Ensure the company is licensed and certified by relevant authorities, demonstrating their expertise and adherence to safety standards.
Experience: Opt for companies with a proven track record of effectively controlling cicadas in residential environments.
Environmental Awareness: Choose a company that employs environmentally responsible methods and uses products that minimize harm to the ecosystem.
Customer Reviews: Read online reviews and testimonials from previous clients to assess the company’s reputation and customer satisfaction.
Cost and Value: Compare quotes from multiple companies and evaluate the cost-benefit ratio of their services. Ensure you receive a detailed explanation of the treatment plan and its potential effectiveness.
Safety Precautions: Discuss with the company the safety measures they will implement to protect your family and pets during the treatment process.
Warranty and Follow-Up: Inquire about any warranties the company offers on their services and their follow-up procedures to ensure the problem is resolved permanently.
References: Request references from the pest control company to contact for feedback on their experience and results.
Reputation: Check the company’s website and social media presence for testimonials, awards, and industry recognition.
Insurance: Ensure the company carries adequate insurance coverage for any potential accidents or damages that may occur during the treatment.

Remember, pest control services can vary in cost and effectiveness depending on the severity of the infestation and the size of your property. It’s essential to research thoroughly and choose a company that meets your specific needs and budget.

How to Get Rid of Cicadas: Home Remedies

Cicadas are large, noisy insects that can be a nuisance around your home. While they are not harmful to humans, their constant buzzing can be irritating. If you are looking for ways to get rid of cicadas without using harsh chemicals, there are a few home remedies you can try.

One simple remedy is to spray a mixture of water and dish soap around your home’s exterior. The soap will create a barrier that will prevent cicadas from landing. You can also try sprinkling cinnamon or cayenne pepper around your home. These spices have a strong scent that will deter cicadas.

If you have a lot of cicadas around your home, you may want to try using a trap. To make a trap, simply fill a bucket with water and add a few drops of dish soap. Place the bucket in an area where you have seen a lot of cicadas. The cicadas will be attracted to the water, but they will not be able to escape once they get inside the bucket.

You can also try using a vacuum cleaner to remove cicadas from your home. Be sure to use the vacuum cleaner’s hose attachment to reach into tight spaces. Once you have vacuumed up the cicadas, be sure to empty the vacuum cleaner bag immediately so that the cicadas do not escape.

How To Get Rid Of Cicadas Home Remedies