Identifying the Wireworm

• In order to identify the wireworm, one must look to the ground around where the maple tree is planted. These small worms are not to be found on branches or in leaves or flowers. The primary damage they do is directly to roots, so they are most likely to be found in the surrounding soil. In color they are brownish yellow and at their longest they measure a little less than 2 inches. While wireworms might be found in the surrounding ground, they prefer moisture. If the soil is particularly dry, they may burrow down enough that they are not visible. Keeping the ground moist helps ensure that wire worm infestations are spotted before they become extreme in number.
  
  

Damage Caused by the Wireworm

• The wireworm attacks and burrows into the root system of the maple tree and other plants. Because it is first affecting the roots, it may take some time for the signs of their presence to become visible. Maple tree problems springing from the wireworm will include the discoloration of leaves, a general unhealthy appearance as defoliation begins to take effect, and the weakening of branch structures. Because the wireworm is attacking the roots, vital nutrients and minerals are obstructed from making their way up the tree. At first the damage will only be unsightly, but as it worsens the tree may die.
  
  

Preventing Wireworm Problems

• Maple tree problems caused by wireworms can become so extensive that there is a possibility the tree will not be able to be salvaged. The best means of fighting wireworms is by not giving them a chance to settle in and start causing damage. Certain insecticides, both liquid and dry, are geared specifically at wireworms and can be purchased at gardening supply shops. One of these should be bought and applied to the soil the maple tree will be planted in before it is planted. Typically, one to two weeks is enough time to wait between applying the insecticide and planting the tree.
  
  

Controlling Wireworm Infestations

• If wireworm maple tree infestations have been identified, it is possible that damage will be too severe to do anything more than allow the tree to die. If damage has not yet reached an extreme level, the health of the tree may be amended somewhat by making adjustments to the surrounding soil. The principal thing that can be done to the soil to aid in the problem is to alter the way it drains. If it does not appear to drain very well, supplements can be bought and mixed in with the soil to make sure water drains off more quickly. Changing this condition that the wireworm thrives in can be of help in trying to get it under control. Unfortunately, at this stage chemical treatments will be of no use; it is recommended to only use insecticides at the time of planting, not after.