Which practice can enhance the resilience of plants against pests?

Maintaining overall plant health is fundamental in enhancing the resilience of plants against pests. A healthy plant is more capable of withstanding stressors, including pest infestations. Healthy plants typically have robust growth, proper nutrient levels, and strong defense mechanisms, which can deter pests and reduce the likelihood of disease.

Well-nourished and well-watered plants are less vulnerable to pests because they are more capable of producing natural defenses, such as secondary metabolites that can repel or deter insects. Additionally, strong, healthy plants are better able to recover from any pest damage that does occur, further enhancing their resilience.

Practices that detract from plant health, like frequent tilling or over-watering, can stress plants and make them more susceptible to pests. Using non-native species might also introduce plants that are not well-adapted to local pest pressures, potentially increasing their vulnerability rather than enhancing resilience.