What is the primary indicator of plant damage caused by pests?

Wilting followed by yellowing and death is a primary indicator of plant damage caused by pests as it directly relates to the health and vitality of the plant. This sequence of symptoms typically indicates that the plant is experiencing stress, which can stem from pest activity. Pests may damage the plant's vascular system, impairing its ability to transport water and nutrients effectively. When a plant wilts, it is unable to maintain turgor pressure, leading to yellowing as chlorophyll breaks down and the plant begins to starve. Eventually, without intervention, this can result in plant death.

The other symptoms mentioned, such as growth mutations and unusual blooming patterns, can also indicate issues; however, they often involve a broader range of environmental factors or genetic predispositions rather than a direct and acute response to pest damage. Fungal infections are a separate category of plant pathology and do not typically present in the same way as pest-related damage, highlighting the importance of recognizing wilting and yellowing as key signs of pest issues.