What is the purpose of trap cropping in pest management?

The purpose of trap cropping in pest management is to attract pests away from the main crop. This strategy involves planting specific crops that are more attractive to certain pests than the primary crop. By doing so, the pests are lured to the trap crop, allowing for more efficient pest management. Once the pests concentrate on the trap crop, they can be controlled through various means, such as mechanical removal or targeted insecticides, thereby protecting the main crop from damage.

This method provides a proactive approach to pest control, as it utilizes the natural behavior of pests while minimizing the impact on the primary crop. Effectively implemented, trap cropping can reduce the need for broad-spectrum pesticides, promoting a more environmentally sustainable agricultural practice. The other options focus on different agricultural issues that do not align with the specific pest management goal of trap cropping.