Hi, you've asked an incomplete question. However, I assumed you are referring to the article found on the Scientific American website.
Step-by-step explanation:
Remember, according to that article we are told that scientists notice that these insects have a long nymphal (immature form before becoming adults) stage, one that can last up to 13 to 17 years on the ground before they leave the ground looking for mating partners.
Because it is only after mating occurs at this point that their eggs are laid, that is why scientists believe that cicadas only reproduce every 13 or 17 years.