Which approach is considered a key strategy in Integrated Pest Management (IPM)?

The key strategy in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is the use of a variety of pest management strategies in conjunction. This approach recognizes that no single method is sufficient to manage pest populations effectively and sustainably. By integrating multiple techniques—such as biological control, cultural practices, mechanical control, and as a last resort, chemical pesticides—IPM encourages a holistic view of pest management that considers the ecology of the pest, the crop, and the surrounding environment.

This diversity of tactics allows for a more resilient approach to pest management, reducing the likelihood of pests developing resistance to any one method and minimizing potential harm to beneficial organisms and the ecosystem. By evaluating and selecting the most appropriate combination of strategies based on the specific conditions and pest pressures in a given situation, IPM practitioners can achieve effective pest control while maintaining environmental health.