Potato crops under siege: Wireworm infestation threats and solutions

Wireworms are pests that can destroy entire potato crops. Although less well-known than the Colorado potato beetle, they are equally dangerous. How can you recognize their presence and effectively get rid of them? Here are proven methods to combat these unwelcome garden guests.

When we think of potato pests, we usually think of the Colorado potato beetle. However, lurking in the shadows of this commonly known enemy is another equally dangerous opponent: wireworms. These inconspicuous beetle larvae from Elateridae can cause enormous damage, attacking potato tubers underground.

Wireworms are a real scourge for gardeners. Yellow or cream-colored larvae with distinctive darker rings can destroy entire crops in a short time. Their name comes from their appearance, resembling a piece of copper wire. Don’t be fooled by their inconspicuous look—the effects of their feeding can be catastrophic for entire crops.

The presence of wireworms in your garden is not always easy to notice, especially early in their invasion. The first signs of their feeding may be noticeable when plants start to wilt or yellow despite proper watering. However, the real damage becomes apparent only after digging up the potatoes.

Attacked tubers have characteristic narrow tunnels that the wireworms bore in search of food. These corridors often contain pest droppings, further decreasing the crops' quality. In extreme cases, heavily damaged potatoes are unsuitable for consumption or processing.

Worse still, wireworms don't just stick to potatoes. They also attack other root vegetables, such as carrots and beets, corn, tomatoes, onions, leeks, lettuce, and strawberries. Their voracity intensifies especially during periods of drought when they are searching for food rich in water.

Combating wireworms may seem challenging, but several effective methods exist to protect your crops. One method is to prepare a solution of potassium permanganate. The powder is available at a pharmacy, and after purchasing, simply dissolve 0.1 ounces in 2.6 gallons of water and water the affected plants with this mixture. Another method is an extract of celandine, dandelion, or nettle. Simply pour 1.1 pounds of nettle, 0.44 pounds of dandelion, or 0.22 pounds of celandine into 2.6 gallons of water and let it sit for 2-3 days, then water the plants.

Equally important is regularly turning over the soil, which can bring the larvae to the soil surface, where they become easy prey for birds. It is also worth planting plants that wireworms dislike between the rows of potatoes, such as peas, beans, garlic, rosemary, oregano, or lavender.

Remember that an effective fight against wireworms requires patience and consistency. By regularly applying these methods, you can significantly reduce the population of these pests and protect your valuable crops. Proper fertilization and watering of plants will also increase their resistance to pest attacks.