How can soil pH influence pest control?

Soil pH plays a significant role in pest control primarily because it affects the availability of essential nutrients and chemicals in the soil that plants need to grow healthy and robust. A balanced pH level ensures that plants can effectively absorb nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients. When the pH is either too high (alkaline) or too low (acidic), it can result in nutrient deficiencies or toxicities, making plants less vigorous and more susceptible to pest infestations and diseases.

Healthy plants tend to have better resistance to pests, as they can produce natural defenses and grow more robust root systems. Therefore, by maintaining an optimal soil pH, you can indirectly enhance the plants' defenses against pests, thereby improving the efficacy of pest control measures taken when necessary. This relationship underscores the importance of soil management in integrated pest management practices.