Pistachio growers are dealing with stink bugs, but some can be beneficial

Pests are a thorn in the side of farmers and ranchers. For pistachio growers, those pests are causing a stink. Ag advisors in California say, unfortunately, the tree nut is all too inviting for stink bugs, but warn some can be beneficial.

“Most stink bugs are migratory, with the exception of the green stink bug, which overwinters in the orchard. Also, be careful that they don’t declare all stink bugs to be injurious because the gray, rough, shielded stink bug is beneficial, and it also lays eggs that are somewhat indistinguishable from all the other interior stink bugs,” said Bob Beeded, a UCANR Farm Advisor Emeritus.

The brown marmorated stinkbug is a native of Asia. It is believed that it first came to America by way of Pennsylvania more than two decades ago.

Related Stories
The USDA’s upcoming reports will drop on Tuesday afternoon, giving the trade real results on acreage shifts, drought concerns, and ongoing trade tensions, adding uncertainty for U.S. farmers.
Spring Fieldwork Advances As Weather Patterns Shift Nationwide
SoilView’s Chris Nelson explains why soil testing is essential, how it enhances nutrient management, and why growers should focus on data-driven strategies to guide planting and fertilization this year.
National Association of Wheat Growers President Jamie Kress discusses how rising fertilizer prices pressure wheat producers and the Administration’s consideration of lowering duties on Moroccan phosphate.
Corn and soybean exports continue supporting demand levels.
Brazil logistics issues may support U.S. soybean demand.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

These produce staples last longer and are incredibly versatile, whether cooking from scratch, planning meals, or building a more budget-friendly kitchen routine. These are six fruits and vegetables that stay fresh for weeks.
Dis is a delightful dish. You can serve it by itself or with a good gravy or gumbo. It is so easy to fix, I garontee!
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.