We are providing updated maps of the distribution of kudzu bug and brown marmorated stink bug in Virginia. Although we have added a few new counties since last week, overall the populations of both of these pests are very low compared with last year. To our knowledge, no soybean fields have even come close to reaching threatening levels or thresholds.
Most kudzu bug egg masses that we are finding have already hatched indicating that the second generation is occurring. This pest has only two generations so if this second generation stays small, as it appears, we may not have to treat any fields this year.
Brown marmorated stink bug levels are very low. Although a few can be found in many fields, none are reaching high levels. All of this is good news for growers. But, the season is far from over so stay vigilant.
Sean and Ames,
We have collected egg masses and have seen adult brown marmorated stink bug in our soybean plots at Kentland Research Far, so I think that you can add Montgomery County to your 2014 BMSB Virginia distribution map. We have not seen kudzu bug this year, even in the kudzu patches that have had them in previous years.
Tom K.