According to experts from the Institute of Agrobiotechnologies of the Komi Science Centre, the past autumn and winter have created exceptionally favorable conditions for the survival of major potato pests. A warm autumn allowed the Colorado potato beetle, aphids, the winter cutworm, and the click beetle (wireworm) to enter hibernation safely without dying from sudden frosts. A thick snow cover provided reliable protection against low temperatures, while a rapid thaw further increased the insects’ chances of survival. As a result, researchers predict not only high pest survival rates but also active reproduction in the upcoming season, provided that May weather does not interfere.
The decisive factor, according to researcher Irina Sharapova, will be the weather in May. Frosts during this month combined with waterlogged soil could significantly reduce pest numbers, while dry weather may help control wireworm populations. Conversely, if May proves favorable for the pests, an outbreak of insect reproduction will be unavoidable. Currently, it is too early to take any pest control measures — experts recommend waiting for the snow to completely melt before applying insect-control treatments.
