How to identify
- Shield-shaped bugs in brown, green, or mottled colors
- Piercing damage on fruit — white spongy spots under the skin
- Strong odor when crushed
Damage: Catfacing and cloudy spots that ruin market quality; yield loss.
Control methods
- Hand-pick into soapy water; check under leaves early morning.
- Remove weedy borders that host early generations.
- Harvest ripe fruit promptly so bugs move on.
What products to use
We list product types and what to check on the label — not brand rankings, prices, or “we tested” claims. Always follow the label for your crop, and prefer the least disruptive option that works.
Kaolin clay or labeled contact insecticides
When: Severe fruit scarring year after year
Look for: Products labeled for stink bugs on the crop; soap alone rarely controls adults