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PodcastArkansas Row CropsAug 3, 2026

Are Rice Stink Bugs and Armyworms Threatening Your Crops?

Rice stink bugs and fall armyworms are increasing, raising concerns for Arkansas farmers.

AI-generated source brief by USFarms.ag, based on Arkansas Row Crops. How our briefs are made

Source published Aug 3, 2026. Check the source date before applying seasonal guidance. Brief published .

pest managementcrop healthinsect control

Source summary

What this podcast covered

Rising Stink Bug Numbers

Rice stink bugs are approaching treatment thresholds, which could lead to increased crop damage if not managed properly. Farmers are advised to consider their options carefully as the pest population grows.

Fall Armyworms in Pastures

Fall armyworms are becoming a concern in pastures, with reports of their presence increasing. Farmers should monitor their fields closely to prevent potential infestations from spreading to crops.

Challenges in Cotton Pest Control

Controlling plant bugs in cotton is particularly challenging this time of year due to larger canopies that provide hiding spots for pests. Effective coverage during applications is critical to achieving control.

Key takeaways

5 things worth knowing

  1. 01

    Rice stink bug numbers are rising, nearing treatment thresholds.

  2. 02

    Fall armyworms are present in pastures, requiring careful monitoring.

  3. 03

    Cotton plant bug control is difficult due to late-season population surges.

  4. 04

    Effective pest management requires good coverage, especially in larger canopies.

  5. 05

    Farmers should consider treatment options based on pest populations and crop conditions.

Source figures at a glance

At a glance

What the podcast covered, in 4 signals

Pests

Increasing pressure

Rice stink bugs

Numbers nearing treatment thresholds in Arkansas.

Pests

Emerging threat

Fall armyworms

Present in pastures, requiring monitoring.

Crops

Control challenges

Cotton plant bugs

Late-season populations complicate management.

Management

Critical timing

Pest interventions

Effective coverage is essential for control.

Questions & answers

Quick answers

What should I do if I find rice stink bugs in my fields?

Monitor their numbers closely and consider treatment options if they approach threshold levels.

How can I manage fall armyworms in my pastures?

Keep an eye on pest populations and be prepared to treat if numbers increase significantly.

Why is controlling plant bugs in cotton so difficult now?

Late-season populations are high, and larger canopies make it hard to achieve effective coverage with insecticides.

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