Which of the following factors does not influence pest population dynamics?

Soil type does not directly influence pest population dynamics compared to the other factors listed. While soil type can affect plant health and subsequently contribute to the overall ecosystem, it does not play a significant role in determining the population levels of pests.

In contrast, food availability directly impacts pest populations, as pests rely on available food sources for survival and reproduction. The frequency of pesticide application can also lead to changes in pest populations by reducing their numbers or, in some cases, leading to pesticide resistance. Human intervention, through practices like habitat modification, can either suppress or enhance pest populations by altering their environment and resources.

Therefore, while soil type has its importance in horticulture, it is not a primary driver of pest population dynamics in the same way that food availability, pesticide application, and human intervention are.