Wireworms, flea beetles, potato tuberworm and white grubs are all soil-dwelling pests that feed on potato tubers. Wireworms are small, yellow-brown worms, while white grubs and potato tuberworms are white-ish. Flea beetles are tiny and black, but their destructive larvae are slender and white.
What is most common pest in potatoes?
The common black and yellow-striped "potato bug", a very familiar insect, is the most serious pest of potatoes. Both the adult, or beetle, and the black-spotted, red larva feed on potato leaves. Their damage can greatly reduce yield and even kill plants.
How do you keep bugs out of potatoes?
How to Get Rid of Potato Bugs: 11 Steps to End the Infestation1Common Host Plants.2Take a Look Each Day.3Plant Resistant Cultivars.4Protect Your Plants.5Use Crop Rotation.6Mulch Deeply.7Remove Adults By Hand.8Remove Eggs by Hand.
What is eating holes in my potatoes?
Holes in potatoes are mainly caused by wireworms which are the larvae of click beetles. They tunnel into the potato tuber leaving a hole behind. Methods of control include crop rotation, traps, pesticides, and predatory nematodes. Holes in potatoes can also be caused by hollow heart conditions and white grubs.
Are potato bugs harmful?
Is a potato bug bite poisonous? Although this critter has a powerful bite and can clamp onto your skin causing a painful wound, it is not toxic to humans. Its saliva is laced with a natural toxin, but this is more harmful to plants and crops than it is to you.
More useful articles on a similar topic 👇
What do you do for potato bugs?Are raw potatoes safe for cats?