Description
Wireworms are the larvae of a group of beetles commonly called click beetles. The adults are called click beetles because they make a clicking sound as they flip from their backs to their feet. Wireworm larvae are yellow or brown worms that appear to be segmented and are 1/2 inch to over 1 inch (1.2-2.5 cm) in length. They can be distinguished from other immature insects by their tough wire-like appearance in contrast to most soft-bodied immature stages of other insects. The larvae have six tiny legs close to the head. Adult wireworms (the beetle), are 0.5-2.0 cm (0.25-0.75 in) long and dull reddish brown to black in colour, depending on the species. There are almost 400 species of wireworms found across Canada and the US. While most are harmless to lawns, some species are serious pests.

Life Cycle
The wireworms have a long life for an insect. Their complete lifecycle takes from two to six years. Most of the lifecycle is spent as a larvae feeding on roots. The pupae and adult stage require only a few months before eggs are laid near grass plants and the cycle repeats itself. The female beetles lay their eggs in May and June.

Damage
Wireworms live in the soil and feed on roots, severing them at ground level or burrowing into shoots causing plants to appear stunted, wilt or die. They thrive in poorly drained, moist compacted soil. Wireworm feeding in a lawn is often mistaken as drought because of the root damage.

Damage Control
First and foremost, it is important to ensure adequate fertility, a balanced soil pH and low soil compaction to encourage a robust lawn that will be able to tolerate some insect feeding.
Make sure you are mowing and watering properly as well.

If you think you have a wireworm problem, call us and we will come out and inspect your lawn and identify the cause and recommend further strategies for control or recovery.