How to Manage Stink Bugs

You’ll soon start seeing, and maybe even smelling, a common southern insect in your landscape and garden. You may have spotted a few in your home this winter. This bug is even a relative of the bed bug! Can you guess the name? If you said stink bug, you’d be correct!

Mississippi is home to several different stink bug species. They are easily identified by their brown/green shield-shaped bodies and unpleasant odor. Do they stink all the time? No. They will release their foul odor if they are distressed or feel threatened. Some stink bugs will release their odor to alert other stink bugs that they have found a shelter during winter months.

The stink bug remains active longer in Mississippi due to the state’s warmer climate. Stink bugs become active outdoors in late February and March as temperatures start to rise. They begin feeding on weeds and early crops. When summer rolls around, this is when things start to get serious. The population grows significantly and begins to cause damage to various row crops and gardens. As cooler temperatures enter the area, they search for winter shelter.

Stink bugs aren’t a bug you’d like to have around. If you grow vegetables, you know they’re a nuisance, especially in summer and fall. They damage crops by feeding directly on the fruit or developing seed of plants. Stink bugs are known to live and feed on a variety of crops, including tomatoes.

What can you do to manage and prevent stink bugs?

• When looking for garden pests, remove any egg masses, nymphs, and adult stink bugs you may find to help slow the spread.
• Use insecticides when necessary, including zeta-cypermethrin (GardenTech Sevin Insect Killer) and permethrin (Hi-Yield Lawn, Garden, Pet and Livestock Insect Control). Always read and follow the directions on the label.
• Before winter, seal gaps and repair screens to prevent entry into your home.
• If you find some in your home, vacuum them up. Do not crush them.

For additional information on stink bugs or any other pests, you can contact your local Extension office. Our team has access to great research-based information on the best ways to manage pests. Our Bug’s Eye View articles are also a great resource for all things related to bugs!