Stinkbug Damage on Tomatoes: Causes and Control

Sunken, discolored spots on tomatoes are classic stinkbug feeding damage. These insects pierce the fruit with their needle-like mouthparts, injecting bacteria and fungi that cause the surrounding tissue to decay.

Management Strategy

• Mow weeds near the garden in fall to eliminate overwintering sites.
• Scout early next summer; apply garden insecticide at first sign of stinkbugs or damage.
• Target the undersides of leaves where they congregate.

See Stinkbug – Control for more details.