The hidden soil pest that destroys root crops from the inside

Finding round holes and winding tunnels inside carrots or beets in late August often signals an infestation of wireworms. While the foliage above ground may appear healthy, these pests systematically destroy root crops, rendering them unfit for consumption or long-term storage. Identifying the Hidden Threat The wireworm is the hardy, yellow-orange larva of the click beetle. These larvae live in the soil and can develop there for several years. Because the foliage remains unaffected, visual inspection of the greens cannot confirm an infestation. The larvae burrow deep into the flesh of carrots and beets, creating characteristic "bore holes." Activity typically peaks in late August and early September as the root crops accumulate sugars. When harvesting, a close inspection of each vegetable is necessary. The presence of smooth, round holes indicates that the pest has established itself on the plot. Such produce decays quickly as the tunnels allow infections to enter the vegetable.