Description
Stinkbugs are medium- to large-sized bugs, usually ¼ to ¾ inches long. They are usually dull green, gray, or brown, but one common stinkbug, the harlequin bug, is black with bright orange marks. Stinkbugs get their name from the foul smell they produce when disturbed. This smell comes from a fluid they discharge from special stink glands. The great majority of stinkbugs suck the juices from tender young foliage and fruit. They can be destructive pests when numerous. Infested fruit develops hard calluses around the feeding punctures, and the fruit may be deformed if punctured early in its development. Leaves that are heavily infested may become distorted and scorched. However, a few species are predators on other insects. Stinkbugs lay barrel-shaped eggs in groups of 10 to 20 on leaves. The eggs are often brightly colored with stripes.
Control
Treat infested plants with an insecticidal soap or an insecticide containing pyrethrins or carbaryl. Repeat the treatment at intervals of 7 to 10 days if the plants become reinfested. Make sure your plant is listed on the product label. Handpick egg masses when seen. Clean up weeds in orchards and gardens to eliminate stinkbug breeding places.
