Loopers are the dominant soybean insect, up to 30% defoliation and damaging levels in some fields. A few velvetbean caterpillar and green cloverworms are in the mix. The “grass” strain of the fall armyworm does not appear to feed to a significant degree on soybeans. And, stink bug populations are not as high as anticipated.
Red banded stink bugs were discovered on the Wiregrass Research Farm, Headland, AL (Henry Co.) this week. Since they were found about 180 miles west of Headland last month, they likely may be present in other locations across south Alabama.