Ornamental and Turf Pesticide Applicators Practice Exam

In an Integrated Pest Management program, you should...

1. Rely solely on chemical pesticides

2. Produce healthy plants that can resist pests

3. Regularly rotate crops

4. Focus on immediate pest elimination

The correct answer is: Produce healthy plants that can resist pests

In an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program, producing healthy plants that can resist pests is a fundamental principle. By focusing on plant health, you strengthen the plants' natural defenses against pests and diseases, which reduces the need for chemical interventions. Healthy plants are more resilient, capable of withstanding pest pressure, and can thrive in their environment, minimizing reliance on pesticides. This approach aligns with the IPM philosophy of using a combination of management strategies—cultural, biological, and chemical—rather than depending solely on one method. Other practices, such as crop rotation, while beneficial for managing pest populations and soil health, are components of the broader strategy and do not address the critical role of plant health directly. Similarly, a focus on immediate pest elimination can lead to over-reliance on chemicals, which is contrary to the sustainable goals of IPM. While chemical pesticides can be part of the program, relying solely on them is not in line with the holistic approach that IPM promotes. Therefore, the emphasis on producing resilient plants is key to the success of an integrated pest management strategy.