Which of the following practices can contribute to pest control?

Maintaining proper irrigation practices is a key factor in effective pest control. Adequate and well-managed irrigation can greatly influence plant health and resilience, making crops less susceptible to pest infestations. Proper irrigation helps ensure that plants receive the right amount of water, which is crucial for their growth and development. Healthy plants are often better equipped to fend off pests and diseases.

Additionally, appropriate irrigation practices can help create an environment that reduces conditions favorable for pest proliferation. For example, overwatering can lead to issues such as root rot and other diseases that can weaken plants, making them more vulnerable to pest attack. Conversely, insufficient watering can stress plants, leading to reduced vigor and increased susceptibility to pests. Therefore, by managing irrigation correctly, farmers can improve plant health, leading to a natural reduction in pest populations and better overall crop yield.

In contrast, other practices mentioned, such as neglecting field sanitation, over-fertilizing crops, and planting monocultures, can create conditions that are conducive to pest development rather than controlling them. Neglecting sanitation can leave habitats for pests, over-fertilization can lead to excessive growth that attracts pests, and monocultures can create a concentrated environment that pests thrive in.