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PodcastArkansas Row CropsJul 23, 2026

What Insect Pressures Are Affecting Arkansas Rice and Soybeans?

Insect pressures are fluctuating in Arkansas rice and soybeans, with varying levels of stink bugs and armyworms reported.

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

Source published Jul 23, 2026. Check the source date before applying seasonal guidance. Brief published .

insect pressurespest managementcrop health

Source summary

What this podcast covered

Current Pest Situation in Rice

Rice stink bugs are showing unpredictable numbers, particularly in early-headed rice. Many farmers believe their crops will finish without significant pest damage, which is a positive sign compared to previous years.

Cotton Pest Management

In cotton fields, plant bugs and aphids are present, but their numbers are manageable. Farmers are using targeted treatments based on the specific pest pressures they encounter.

Soybean Pest Activity

Soybeans are experiencing some bollworm activity, especially in areas north of Highway 40. However, the overall pressure is not as severe as last year, providing some relief to farmers.

Key takeaways

5 things worth knowing

  1. 01

    Rice stink bug numbers are variable, but many crops may finish without treatment.

  2. 02

    Armyworms are present but not at treatable levels yet.

  3. 03

    Cotton crops are facing some plant bugs and aphids, but numbers are manageable.

  4. 04

    Soybeans are experiencing some bollworm activity, particularly north of Highway 40.

  5. 05

    Overall pest pressures are lower compared to last year, indicating a potentially smoother harvest.

Source figures at a glance

At a glance

What the podcast covered, in 4 signals

Insects

Variable

Rice stink bugs

Numbers fluctuate, but many crops may finish without treatment.

Insects

Scattered

Armyworms

Present but not at treatable levels.

Insects

Manageable

Cotton pests

Plant bugs and aphids reported, but not alarming.

Insects

Lower

Bollworm activity

Less severe than previous years, particularly in soybeans.

Questions & answers

Quick answers

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

Monitor the levels closely; many crops are expected to finish without treatment this year.

Are armyworms a significant threat to my crops?

Currently, armyworms are present but not at treatable levels, so immediate action may not be necessary.

How can I manage pests in my cotton fields?

Use targeted treatments based on the specific pests you encounter, such as Transform for aphids.

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