Which method is considered a form of mechanical control for garden pests?

Handpicking or trapping pests is recognized as a form of mechanical control in garden pest management. This method involves physically removing pests from plants or using traps to capture them, effectively reducing their population without the need for chemical intervention. Mechanical control strategies emphasize the direct physical interaction with pests, making them an environmentally friendly option.

Using pesticides is categorized as a chemical control method, which relies on the application of substances to kill or repel pests, rather than engaging in physical removal. Applying fertilizers to enhance plant health does not directly deal with pest management and is aimed at promoting plant growth rather than controlling pests. Planting in rows for better airflow is related to cultivation practices that can promote healthy growth, but it does not target pest removal directly. Therefore, handpicking or trapping distinctly aligns with the principles of mechanical pest control, as it involves methods that physically alter pest populations.