People, not pests, should eat tomatoes. One gardener is wondering what could possibly be taking taking a bit out of her bounty.
Q. I planted a vegetable garden and my biggest problem is with my tomatoes. I was invaded by these black bugs which I think are called stink bugs. They took a bit out of every tomato I had. I wouldn’t mind if they ate the whole tomato but they just wanted to eat them all. What can I do to get them out of my garden? I just planted my tomato plants this year and I would appreciate your answer.
-Greer, South Carolina
A. I’m not certain you have stinkbugs. Stinkbugs are generally green to greenish brown, and they don’t take “bites” out of tomatoes; more of a pin-prick type damage. I don’t suppose you have a picture? If they were mine, I would apply a broad spectrum insecticide and / or insecticidal soaps on a recommended basis. In the meantime, try to identify the insect causing you havoc.
-Denny Blew, President, BlewLabel Perennials, Bridgeton, New Jersey
