Stink bugs
Shield-shaped bugs that pierce fruit and pods to feed, leaving pale, corky spots and distorted fruit, and give off a bad smell when disturbed.
Also known as: Shield bugs, Brown marmorated stink bug
Symptoms and identification
Pale yellow or white spots with spongy flesh beneath appear on tomatoes, peppers, peaches and apples, and fruit are dimpled or deformed, a look called cat-facing. Beans and pods are shrivelled and seeds are poor. The bugs are flat, shield-shaped and brown, green or grey, and release a smell when handled.
Causes
The bugs overwinter in leaf litter, buildings and sheltered places, and move to gardens in spring. They feed on a wide range of fruit and vegetables, weeds and wild plants.
Organic treatment
Knock bugs into a bucket of soapy water in the cool of the morning, and squash egg clusters on leaves. Spray kaolin clay on fruit as a barrier.
Prevention
Remove weeds and garden debris that give shelter, cover young plants with fine mesh, and plant a trap crop such as sunflower or okra around the edge. Seal gaps in sheds and houses in autumn.
Chemical treatment (use with care)
Use an insecticide labelled for stink bugs on that crop, following the label and harvest wait. Control is hard once adults are established.