Problem Identifier Unit Screen//v.w/ RR Template

Problem Identifier Unit Screen//v.w/ RR Template Wireworms

Problem
Plants are stunted and grow slowly. Tunnels wind through stems, roots, and in and on the surface of tubers. Shiny, hard, jointed, cream to yellow worms up to 5/8 inch long are found in the tuber and in the soil.

Analysis
Wireworms feed on potatoes, corn, carrots, beets, peas, beans, lettuce, and many other plants. Wireworms feed entirely on underground plant parts, devouring seed potatoes, underground stems, tubers, and roots. Infestations are most extensive in soil where lawn grass was recently grown. Adults are known as "click" beetles because they make a clicking sound when turning from their back to their feet. Wireworm larvae feed for 2 to 6 years before maturing into adult beetles, so all sizes and ages of wireworms may be found in the soil at the same time. Undamaged portions of the tubers are edible.

Solution
Control wireworms with an insecticide containing diazinon at the first sign of damage. Incorporate into the top 6 to 8 inches of soil. Do not store damaged tubers. Repeat the soil treatment next year just before planting.

Back to the top