Wireworms
Agrypnus spp.; Heteroderes spp.
Slender yellow-brown larvae of click beetles that bore into root crops, potatoes and germinating seed.
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Identify from a photoBackground
Wireworms are the soil-dwelling larvae of click beetles. They spend 1-3 years in the soil feeding on roots, germinating seeds and tubers. They are a particular problem after newly broken-up pasture or weedy ground, and in gardens that have not been cultivated for a few years.
How to identify
- Larvae: slender, tough, segmented, yellow-brown, 15-25mm long, with a hard smooth skin
- Adults (click beetles): 8-15mm, brown or black, flip themselves audibly when placed on their back
- Damage: bored holes in potatoes and carrots, chewed germinating seed, wilted seedlings with hollowed roots
Life cycle
Long life cycle, 1-3 years as larvae, depending on species. Adults emerge in spring, lay eggs in soil, larvae feed for multiple seasons before pupating.
Weather triggers
- Temperature: 8-25°C
- Move up to surface in moist cool soil. Burrow deeper in hot dry weather.
Peak season (southern hemisphere)
Red = active season · Dark red outlined = this month
Affected vegetables & crops
Click any crop to see current prices and growing info.
Climate zones at risk
Organic & low-impact control
- Trap with halved potatoes buried 5cm deep on sticks. Dig up weekly and destroy captured wireworms
- Cultivate soil in winter to expose larvae to frost and birds
- Rotate away from root crops on newly broken ground for 1-2 seasons
Chemical control
- No home-garden registered soil insecticides for wireworm
Always read product labels. Registrations change.
Prevention
- Avoid planting susceptible crops in recently de-grassed ground
- Maintain active soil life with compost and regular cropping
Companion planting
Mustard green manure grown and incorporated before flowering has some suppressive effect (biofumigation).
Biosecurity
Native and widespread.
Know when Wireworms is actually about
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