Invasive Kudzu Bugs

Invasive kudzu bugs were first detected in Georgia in 2009 and severe infestations in soybean occurred in central Georgia by 2010 and have spread throughout most of the state during 2011. Of the various hosts besides kudzu, they are particularly adapted to soybeans. UGA entomology research in 2011 included greenhouse testing and 16 field experiments at the UGA Plant Sciences Farm, Southeastern Branch Research and Education Center and Mountain Branch Research and Education Center in soybeans. Results from research demonstrate that invasive kudzu bugs can be managed effectively so that growers can continue to grow soybean profitably in Georgia. Manipulation of planting date, soybean maturity group and use of herbicide plus insecticide mixtures are cultural control tactics that show promise. Soybean breeding efforts have resulted in the identification of resistance to kudzu bugs. They have research information that will lead to establishing economic thresholds of kudzu bug populations for triggering insecticide sprays. Extensive insecticide testing efforts have resulted in identifying effective, cost efficient chemical controls which can be recommended to soybean growers for managing kudzu bug infestations.