The central portion of the lesion eventually turns gray and may drop out. Plants severely affected may appear ragged or blighted as lesions coalesce. For processing peas, there is essentially zero tolerance for this type of damage. Although there has been extensive research to develop cowpea curculio resistance, there is no adequate control except for frequent use of insecticide sprays. Consult your local county Extension agent or the Georgia Pest Control Handbook for appropriate insecticides.
Several insects are common pests on southernpeas.
The following is a list of the more common insect pests. Cowpea Curculio - The adult female of this insect punctures the pea pod and lays eggs, which eventually develop into larvae that feed on the developing seed. Pods are blemished, shriveled, and poorly developed. Aphids - These insects also can cause damage by sucking plant juices. More importantly, these insects are the primary means of transmitting viral diseases from one plant to another.