Explore the essentials of organic pest control in sustainable agriculture, focusing on ecological, biological, and cultural methods for healthy crops. Enhance your knowledge of natural solutions and approaches to crop protection.
Which of the following is an example of a biological control method commonly used in organic farming to reduce pest populations?
Explanation: Introducing ladybugs is a classic biological control, as these insects feed on aphids and naturally reduce their numbers. Synthetic insecticides are prohibited in organic farming. Flooding fields and burning residues are less targeted and may harm beneficial organisms or soil health.
A farmer may use neem oil to deter certain insect pests. What makes neem oil suitable for organic pest control?
Explanation: Neem oil is derived from plants and breaks down naturally, aligning with organic standards. Artificial chemicals are excluded from organic pest control. Neem doesn't guarantee total pest elimination and does not directly boost growth.
In organic fields, farmers often plant marigolds alongside vegetables to help control which type of agricultural issue?
Explanation: Marigolds naturally repel some pests like nematodes and certain insects, making them valuable companions. They don't significantly affect soil acidity, water retention, or wind erosion.
Crop rotation is recommended in organic farming for pest management because it helps to:
Explanation: Crop rotation disrupts the life cycles of pests, limiting their recurrence and spread. It does not focus on chemical use, may not always reduce labor, and does not assure better prices.
What is a common example of a physical or mechanical barrier used in organic farming to exclude insect pests from crops?
Explanation: Insect netting physically blocks pests from reaching plants and is widely used in organic systems. Chemical fumigants and synthetic fertilizers are not allowed in organic pest control, and mixing sand only impacts soil texture.