Combatting wireworms: Protecting your potato crops from hidden pests

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 recognise their presence and effectively get rid of them? Here are proven methods to combat these unwelcome garden guests.

We usually envisage the Colorado potato beetle when we think of potato pests. However, lurking in the shadows of this commonly known enemy are 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. Their yellow or cream-coloured larvae with characteristic darker rings can destroy entire crops in a short time. Their name comes from their appearance, resembling a piece of copper wire, but don't be fooled by their innocuous look—the effects of their feeding can be catastrophic for entire crops.

The presence of wireworms in our garden is not always easy to notice, especially at the beginning of their invasion. The first signs of their feeding may be seen 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 tunnels often contain pest droppings, further diminishing 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 our crops. One of them is to prepare a solution of potassium permanganate. The powder is available at the pharmacy, and after purchasing, simply dissolve 2.8 grams in 10 litres of water and water the affected plants with this mixture. Another method is an extract of celandine, dandelion, or nettle. Simply pour 500 grams of nettle, 200 grams of dandelion, or 100 grams of celandine into 10 litres of water, 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. It is also important to provide proper fertilisation and watering of plants, which will increase their resistance to pest attacks.