They may be fascinating creatures with a unique life cycle, but during an emergence year, cicadas can become a nuisance, especially for your precious stored belongings. In 2024, two broods will become active. The last time this occurred was during Thomas Jefferson’s presidency, and the next time it will occur will we 2245.
Once the ground temperature rises to around 64 degrees, the broods will come out of hibernation scattering from southern Wisconsin to the Carolina’s in numbers of around 100 trillion. The emergence is nicknamed the “cicadapocalypse” and here’s how to prepare your storage unit or basement for a cicada outbreak:
Block Their Entry:
- Seal the Cracks: Cicadas are surprisingly adept at squeezing through tiny openings. Inspect your storage unit for cracks around doors, windows, ventilation systems, and any holes in the walls or floor. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal them up. If you are a storage renter, place glue traps at the entrance of these tiny holes/gaps to keep pests and insects from further intruding to your personal property.
- Double-Door Defense: If possible, create a double-door entry system for your home. This adds an extra layer of defense and reduces the chances of cicadas sneaking in when you open the door.
- Mesh Magic: At your residence, consider installing mesh screens on vents and windows to allow for airflow while keeping cicadas out.
Create an Uninviting Environment:
- Lighten Up: Cicadas are drawn to light. If your residence has windows, consider covering them with blackout curtains or opaque films during the peak emergence period.
- Dehumidify: Cicadas thrive in moist environments. Use a dehumidifier to control moisture levels in your home. This will also help prevent mold and mildew growth, which can damage your belongings. If you have storage, consider true climate-controlled storage as there are many benefits to protecting your personal property. If you are in a standard ambient unit, utilize a desiccant type of product.
Protect Your Possessions:
- Box it Up: Store all your belongings in sealed plastic containers or cardboard boxes. This will create a physical barrier between your items and curious cicadas. (Utilize plastic containers over cardboard boxes especially in standard ambient storage space.)
- Furniture Fortress: Elevate furniture off the ground using risers, bricks or pallets. This will discourage cicadas from crawling onto your furniture and potentially leaving behind unwanted “gifts” like sheds.
- Fabric Fenders: For delicate fabrics like clothing or upholstery, consider using breathable storage bags to create an extra layer of protection. (Remember, do not store clothing items on the floor. This attracts pests seeking protection from outside elements.)
Bonus Tips:
- Vacuum Regularly: If cicadas do manage to sneak in, vacuum them up immediately. This will prevent them from laying eggs and starting a new generation inside your residence.
- Natural Repellents: Some anecdotal evidence suggests that natural repellents like peppermint oil or citrus sprays may deter cicadas. However, more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
Whether your personal property is at your residence or at an offsite location, you can help prevent this “cicadapocalypse” from infesting your precious property.