Joanne Whalen, Extension IPM Specialist; jwhalen@udel.edu
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
Although populations were lower the previous two springs due to colder overwintering conditions, it appears that populations could be higher this season. Although trap catches in Delaware are not as high as they were during outbreak years, this year we are seeing a more consistent number in our light traps and pheromone traps located on small vegetable farms compared to 2014 and 2015. A new guidance document titled Integrated Pest Management for Brown Marmorated Stink Bug in Orchard Crops authored by the BMSB SCRI CAP Orchard Crop Commodity Team, has been posted to the stopbmsb.org website. It provides a summary of what researchers have learned so far and management recommendations using an integrated approach: http://www.stopbmsb.org/where-is-bmsb/crop-by-crop/orchard-crops/
Spotted Wing Drosophila (SWD)
We continue to find low levels of SWD adults in traps throughout the state. With the warmer winter conditions, this insect pest is being found earlier in many states. Be sure to consider this pest when making treatment decisions in small fruit, grapes and stone fruit. Growers of SWD hosts (blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and cherries) should begin preventative treatment when fruit becomes susceptible, that is, when fruit starts to change color.
For more information on monitoring, identification and control of this insect pest be sure to check the following links:
https://entomology.ces.ncsu.edu/2016/06/preventing-and-managing-spotted-wing-drosophila-infestation/
http://www.ipm.msu.edu/invasive_species/spotted_wing_drosophila/factsheets