How to spot it

Shield-shaped bugs about 5/8 inch long, brown or green, that smell when handled. Brown marmorated stink bugs have white bands on the antennae.

What it does

They pierce fruit, leaving cloudy white or yellow patches under the skin of tomatoes and corky dimples in apples and peaches. Beans and corn can be deformed.

What to do now

• Knock bugs into a bucket of soapy water in the morning.
• Pick fruit as it starts to color and ripen it indoors.
• Spray insecticidal soap on the young ones.

Keep it away next time

• Cover small crops with fine netting.
• Keep weeds mowed near the garden.
• Seal cracks around windows and doors, where they spend the winter.

Helpful supplies

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Plants it affects

See also