Wireworms

insect

Various (Elateridae)

Click beetle larvae that bore into seeds, roots, and tubers. Persistent soil pest.

Identification

Hard, smooth, shiny, wire-like larvae 1/2 to 1.5 inches long, yellow to brown. Found in soil near roots.

Seed failure. Tunnels in potatoes, carrots, and root crops. Stunted seedlings. Worst in newly broken sod.

Potato or carrot bait traps (bury pieces, check weekly, destroy larvae). Beneficial nematodes.

Imidacloprid seed treatment. Chlorpyrifos at planting (restricted).

Avoid planting root crops in recently converted grass/sod areas. Crop rotation. Fall tillage exposes larvae to cold and predators.

Data confidence: medium | Source: curated_ipm