Stink Bugs
Stink bugs use piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on fruit and seeds.
They often become more noticeable later in summer.
Identification
Stink bugs are typically:
- Shield-shaped
- Brown, green, or mottled
- Equipped with a distinctive odor when disturbed
Damage
On tomatoes and fruit, feeding can cause:
- Pale cloudy spots
- Corky areas
- Hard tissue under the skin
- Deformed fruit
Where to Look
Inspect:
- Fruit clusters
- Bean pods
- Leaf undersides
- Weedy areas nearby
Hand-Picking
Knock adults and nymphs into soapy water.
Egg masses can also be removed.
Weed Management
Some stink bugs build populations on weeds before moving into the garden.
Keep nearby weeds managed.
Protect Beneficial Predators
Avoid unnecessary broad-spectrum insecticides.
Predators and parasitoids attack stink bug eggs and nymphs.
GardenGrowz Tip
If tomatoes look spotted or corky but leaves seem healthy, inspect for stink bugs before assuming disease.