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PodcastArkansas Row CropsAug 11, 2023

What Stink Bug Pressure Means for Arkansas Rice and Soybeans?

Stink bug populations are rising in Arkansas rice and soybeans, prompting urgent management decisions.

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

Source published Aug 11, 2023. Check the source date before applying seasonal guidance. Brief published .

pest managementstink bugsinsecticidescrop health

Source summary

What this podcast covered

Stink Bug Management

The rise in stink bug populations, particularly nymphs in rice, necessitates careful monitoring and timely insecticide applications. Farmers are advised to consider thresholds when deciding on treatments to avoid crop damage.

Cotton Crop Status

As cotton approaches the end of its effective bloom period, pest management strategies are shifting. The focus is on terminating trials and managing remaining pests effectively before the season concludes.

Soybean Pest Dynamics

In soybeans, the presence of both green and brown stink bugs complicates management decisions. Farmers need to adjust their insecticide choices based on the specific types and numbers of stink bugs present.

Emerging Defoliators

Salt marsh caterpillars have been reported, but their impact is currently manageable. Treatment should only be considered if defoliation reaches significant levels, as they are not as threatening as other pests.

Loopers and Other Pests

Loopers are lingering in fields but not increasing significantly. Farmers should remain vigilant but may not need immediate action unless populations rise dramatically.

Key takeaways

5 things worth knowing

  1. 01

    Stink bug nymphs are now present in rice fields, requiring careful management.

  2. 02

    Insecticide application thresholds are critical; farmers should monitor levels closely.

  3. 03

    Cotton crops are nearing the end of effective bloom dates, impacting pest management.

  4. 04

    Soybean fields are seeing a mix of green and brown stink bugs, influencing treatment choices.

  5. 05

    Salt marsh caterpillars and loopers are also present, but their populations are less concerning.

Source figures at a glance

At a glance

What the podcast covered, in 4 signals

Pests

Rising pressure

Stink bugs

Nymphs emerging in rice and soybeans.

Crops

Termination nearing

Cotton

End of effective bloom dates impacts management.

Insecticides

Threshold monitoring

Soybeans

Adjustments needed based on stink bug levels.

Defoliators

Present but manageable

Salt marsh caterpillars

Treatment only necessary with significant defoliation.

Questions & answers

Quick answers

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

Monitor the population closely and apply insecticides if nymph levels exceed thresholds.

How do I know when to terminate my cotton crop?

Termination is typically advised after the last effective bloom date, which varies by region.

What insecticides are recommended for managing stink bugs in soybeans?

Lambda is effective for lower numbers of green stink bugs, while bifenthrin or acephate may be needed for higher populations.

Are salt marsh caterpillars a significant threat to my crops?

They are generally manageable but should be treated if defoliation becomes noticeable.

What are the current conditions for loopers in my fields?

Loopers are present but not increasing significantly; monitor them but immediate action may not be necessary.

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