Q: We have been having a bad stink bug infestation (hemipterans not pinacate beetles) the past couple of years in the garden.Β This past year they were out early and often and basically ruined the entire tomato crop. We are at 5,000 feet and donβt plant until May. First fruits are almost never harvested before Aug. 15. It is a cold zone with 46 nights at or below freezing so far this winter (no that is not a misprint). Do you have any suggestions to deal with these pests?
A:Β There are a couple things you can do. First, it is helpful to scout once a week when your crop comes up to see when the stink bugs begin to lay eggs. They are laid in a mass of 10-25 on the underside of leaves and look like tiny barrels. You can reduce the population significantly by removing the eggs before they hatch. Once they hatch and are actively feeding you can spray them and the sooner, the better while they are still young. If your crop is organic there is a product called PyGanic that works pretty well on hemipterans. If you use conventional pesticides, there are more choices but they may have some restrictions on when you apply them relative to when you harvest.
Peter L. Warren is the urban horticulture agent for the Pima County Cooperative Extension and the University of Arizona. Questions may be emailed toΒ tucsongardensage@gmail.com
