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Wireworms are the larvae of click beetles. Some species live in the soil and feed on plant roots, they usually only cause problems when grassy areas are converted to vegetable beds.
Biological control
A mixture of nematode species for controlling vegetable pests is sold as Fruit and Vegetable Protection, the nematode Heterorhabditis bacteriophora is sold as a control for wireworm. These are available from some biological control suppliers (pdf document). To be effective the nematodes need to be watered into moist soil while soil temperatures are in the range of 12-20ºC (54-68ºF). These temperatures occur between April and September. Nematodes should be applied as soon as possible after purchase, following the suppliers’ instructions. It may be necessary to water the soil before and after application to ensure the soil is sufficiently moist for nematode activity and survival. Repeat application may be necessary. The nematodes may also affect other insects in the soil and so should be used in a targeted manner.
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Biological control in the home garden
Cabbage root fly
Carrot fly
Chafer grubs in garden borders
Chafer grubs in lawns
Cutworms
Slugs and snails
Swift moth caterpillars
Vine weevil
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The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.
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