Neem-based repellents provide effective control of stink bugs, but must be applied often.
"Stink bug" can refer to numerous pentatomids, including the Euschistus servus and Acrosternum hilare species. The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) also was first found in North America in 1998 and is a major nuisance to gardeners and homeowners. Does this Spark an idea?
Identification
Stink bugs have a distinctive shieldlike back plate and varying colorations, from green to brown to orange. They are typically 1/2 to 2/3 inch long, almost as wide as long, and have odor-producing capabilities, hence their common moniker. Stink bugs are sap-sucking pests that feed on an array of fruits and vegetables, including apples, beans, citrus fruit, corn, figs, peaches, peppers and tomatoes.
Control Options
Most control options to curb stink bugs have not been successful. However, the University of Florida IFAS Extension recommends using azadirachtin-based repellent; azadirachtin is the active ingredient in neem. Russell Mizell III, an entomologist at the University of Florida, also has invented an effective stink bug trap. A promising study reported in the October 2010 issue of the "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry" found fungus from green foxtail plants repelled 90 percent of stink bugs.
Tips
Use repellents labeled specifically for stink bugs and follow all instructions as directed. Repeated applications are required because sunlight breaks down neem quickly and neem washes away with rain.
Tags: stink bugs, bugs have, from green, University Florida