This is speculatory, and it's possible a better answer may come along.

My guess is that this is figurative; it doesn't seem to be a set expression or phrase. (Kingsolver is known for her flowery prose, so it sort of fits with what I know of her style.)

In mammals, the tit, or teat, releases milk when stimulated. Presumably, the tit of trouble, when pestered, dishes out hardship or strife.

I'm not quite sure what it means here, but it seems that her neighbors have seen her tempting trouble on that deck.

This is speculatory, and it's possible a better answer may come along.

My guess is that this is figurative; it doesn't seem to be a set expression or phrase. (Kingsolver is known for her flowery prose, so it sort of fits with what I know of her style.)

In mammals, the tit, or teat, releases milk when stimulated. Presumably, the tit of trouble, when pestered, dishes out hardship or strife.

I'm not quite sure what it means here, but it seems that her neighbors have seen her tempting trouble on that deck.