Which approach does integrated pest management prioritize?

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) emphasizes the importance of prevention over reaction as a primary approach to managing pests. This proactive strategy focuses on understanding pest biology, behavior, and the ecosystem to implement measures that can deter infestations before they occur. By prioritizing preventive tactics, such as habitat modification, crop rotation, and using resistant plant varieties, IPM helps reduce the overall reliance on chemical controls and minimizes the impact on the environment.

In IPM, monitoring is also crucial, as it enables the identification of pest populations and the assessment of potential damage. However, the ultimate goal is to implement preventive measures to maintain pest populations at acceptable levels. This sustainable approach is more environmentally friendly compared to relying solely on chemical pesticides, which can lead to adverse effects, including pest resistance and harm to beneficial organisms. Thus, by prioritizing prevention, IPM offers a balanced and effective method of pest control that aligns with sustainable horticultural practices.