Young nymphs are the most susceptible stage to insecticides, while adults are difficult to kill. As do all true bugs, they suck with the needlelike mouth parts, extracting plant juices from stalks, leaves or veins. Damage is first visible as irregular light areas around the feeding site, then plants become stunted or wilt, turn brown, and die. This stage overwinters among plant debris, emerging in the spring to feed then lay eggs. Barrel-shaped, black and white eggs are laid in double row clusters.
Nymphs are oval shaped with coloration similar to adults, but are smaller and wingless.
Two to four generations occur each year. Because adults overwinter in field debris, plowing after the weather turns cold will reduce populations. Weeds in fields and along fence rows should also be destroyed. For chemical control, refer to the most recent N. C. Agricultural Chemicals Manual. Stink Bugs Two kinds of stink bugs, brown and green, are commonly found attacking vegetables.