In pest management, what does the term "curative treatments" refer to?

The term "curative treatments" refers to actions taken to address pest infestations after they have already been identified in a crop or growing area. These treatments are designed to eliminate existing pest populations or reduce their numbers, thereby mitigating damage to the plants. The goal is to restore the health and productivity of the affected plants once a pest issue has been confirmed.

Curative treatments may involve the use of chemical pesticides, biological controls, or physical methods to remove pests. Because these interventions happen after the pests are present, they are distinct from preventive measures, which focus on avoiding infestations before they occur. This proactive versus reactive approach is essential in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, where curative methods are employed when monitoring indicates a pest problem is significant enough to warrant action.