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PodcastArkansas Row CropsMay 14, 2025

What Thrips and Stink Bugs Mean for Cotton and Corn This Season?

Thrips are emerging as a significant threat to early cotton, while stink bugs pose challenges for corn crops.

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

Source published May 14, 2025. Check the source date before applying seasonal guidance. Brief published .

pest managementcrop monitoringthripsstink bugsbollworms

Source summary

What this podcast covered

Thrips in Cotton

Thrips are becoming a significant concern for cotton growers, especially in northern Arkansas where populations are reportedly high. This pest can cause damage early in the season, making timely intervention essential for crop health.

Stink Bugs in Corn

Stink bugs are currently affecting corn crops, particularly in smaller plants. Many growers may find that damage has already occurred before they are able to take action, highlighting the need for vigilant scouting during critical growth stages.

Weather Effects on Crop Growth

The anticipated warm weather is expected to promote growth in both cotton and corn, potentially helping crops escape vulnerable stages where pests like stink bugs can inflict damage. However, the effectiveness of pest control measures remains a concern as crops develop.

Bollworm Concerns

Reports of bollworms in whorl stage corn raise questions about effective management strategies. The difficulty in applying treatments to these pests at this growth stage complicates control efforts and may lead to yield losses if not addressed promptly.

New Pest Control Products

The review of Planazolin, a new pest control product, is currently underway, with a comment period open for growers to express how it may benefit their pest management strategies. Engaging in this process could lead to improved options for controlling pests in cotton.

Key takeaways

5 things worth knowing

  1. 01

    Thrips populations are high in northern Arkansas cotton fields, requiring careful monitoring.

  2. 02

    Stink bugs are affecting corn, particularly in smaller plants, with potential damage already done.

  3. 03

    Warm weather may help crops grow out of vulnerable stages, but pest management remains critical.

  4. 04

    Bollworms have been reported in whorl stage corn, complicating control efforts due to their location.

  5. 05

    New products like Planazolin are under review, which could help manage pests in cotton.

Source figures at a glance

At a glance

What the podcast covered, in 4 signals

Pests

Emerging threats

Thrips in cotton

High populations reported in northern Arkansas.

Pests

Ongoing issues

Stink bugs in corn

Damage may have occurred before detection.

Weather

Impact on growth

Warm temperatures

Expected to help crops grow out of vulnerable stages.

Products

New options

Planazolin review

Comment period open for pest control product.

Questions & answers

Quick answers

What should I look for in my cotton fields regarding thrips?

Monitor for high populations of thrips, especially in northern Arkansas, as they can cause significant damage early in the season.

How can I manage stink bugs in my corn?

Scout for stink bugs in smaller corn plants, as damage may occur before you notice them; treatments are most effective before the plants reach a certain height.

What impact does warm weather have on my crops?

Warm temperatures are expected to promote crop growth, helping plants escape vulnerable stages where pests can cause damage.

What should I know about bollworms in corn?

Bollworms can be challenging to control in whorl stage corn, and treatments may not be effective once the plants reach this growth stage.

How can I participate in the review of new pest control products?

You can comment on the review of Planazolin, which is currently open, to express how it may help with pest management in your crops.

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