Rather have a pro do it for you?
| Tools and Supplies to identify wireworms in your lawn | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Soil thermometer | |||
| 2 | Garden fork | |||
| 3 | Trowel | |||
| 4 | Bucket | |||
| 5 | Hand lens | |||
| 6 | Plastic bags | |||
| 7 | Wireworm traps | |||
| 8 | Sticky traps | |||
| 9 | Insecticide spray | |||
| 10 | Nematodes | |||
How to identify wireworms in your lawn
Discovering Wireworms in Your Lawn: A Simple Guide to Identification
Wireworms are a common pest that can wreak havoc on your lawn. These small, brownish-yellow larvae of click beetles can cause damage to your grass roots, leading to patches of dead grass and an unattractive lawn. Identifying wireworms early on is crucial to preventing further damage. Here are the steps to identifying wireworms in your lawn:
Step 1: Look for patches of dead grass
Wireworms feed on the roots of grass, which can cause patches of dead grass in your lawn. If you notice areas of your lawn that are turning brown or yellow, this could be a sign of wireworms.
Step 2: Inspect the soil
Wireworms live in the soil, so it’s important to inspect the soil for signs of infestation. Dig up a small section of soil in the affected area and look for small, brownish-yellow worms. Wireworms are typically 1/2 to 1 inch long and have a hard, shiny body.
Step 3: Look for other signs of infestation
In addition to dead grass and wireworms in the soil, there are other signs of infestation to look for. These include tunnels in the soil, chewed grass roots, and adult click beetles flying around your lawn.
Step 4: Use a bait trap
If you’re having trouble identifying wireworms in your lawn, you can use a bait trap. To make a bait trap, mix equal parts of cornmeal and wheat bran and sprinkle it on the affected area. Water the area lightly and cover it with a board or piece of cardboard. Leave the trap in place for a few days and then check it for wireworms.
Step 5: Contact a professional
If you’re still having trouble identifying wireworms in your lawn or if you have a severe infestation, it’s best to contact a professional. A lawn care professional can help you identify the problem and recommend the best course of action to get rid of wireworms and prevent further damage to your lawn.
By following these steps, you can identify wireworms in your lawn and take the necessary steps to get rid of them. Remember, early detection is key to preventing further damage to your lawn.
