Check for Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs in your soybeans.

Doug Johnson, Extension Entomologist, University of Kentucky

I have received reports that appear to indicate an increase in brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) activity in central Kentucky. This invasive bug which has a wide host range has been in Kentucky for about five years, but as yet has not become of economic importance in grain crops. This is likely to change at some time, and it is best to not get caught unawares! 

Stink Bugs Could Still be a Problem in Soybeans

Doug Johnson, Extension Entomologist

Because of delayed planting and a cool summer, Kentucky soybean producers are likely to have considerable acreage of late maturing soybeans. This probably causes most folks to be concerned with frost. However,this extended maturity may also set up fields for additional damage by stink bugs. Producers and consultants should remain watchful as long as pods are still filling.

Kudzu Bug Moves Into Central and West Tennessee

Doug Johnson, UK Extension Entomologist

Kudzu bug continues to be found ever closer to Kentucky (KY). Until just recently, Kudzu bug in Tennessee (TN) was found only in the eastern portion of the state where few soybeans are grown. These infested counties are the closest to KY, but in an area of KY where few soybeans occur. Unfortunately, within the last week, this pest has been found in two additional TN counties. Both of these TN counties are soybean producing areas of central and west TN (See the Map).