Wireworms in Sweet Potatoes: Identification and Management

Wireworms in Sweet Potatoes: Identification and Management

Deformed, oversized sweet potatoes often signal wireworm feeding—the larvae of click beetles. No insecticides are labeled for garden wireworm control, but cultural practices help:

• Trap with potato pieces scattered in the garden.
• Rotate crops yearly.
• Cultivate infested soil in late summer/fall to expose larvae.
• Consider beneficial nematodes.

Resistant Varieties

Choose 'Jewel', 'Nugget', 'All Gold' (moderate resistance) or 'Resisto', 'Regal' (high resistance). Avoid 'Beauregard', 'Pope', 'Hernandez', 'Cordner' (low resistance).

Prevention through rotation and sanitation is your best strategy.