What is an effective method to reduce pests without chemical intervention?

Companion planting is recognized as an effective method for reducing pests without the need for chemical interventions. This approach utilizes the natural relationships between different plant species to create a more balanced ecosystem. Certain plants can repel pests, attract beneficial insects that prey on harmful ones, or even enhance the growth and health of neighboring plants. For example, planting marigolds among vegetable crops can help deter nematodes and other pests, while legumes can improve soil nitrogen levels, benefiting nearby plants.

In contrast, increasing irrigation can lead to waterlogged soil, making plants more susceptible to fungal diseases and attracting certain insects that thrive in moist conditions. Over-fertilizing may promote lush growth, which, while initially advantageous, can lead to increased vulnerability to pests due to the rapid, tender growth that insects often prefer to feed on. Using only one plant species can create a monoculture that is highly susceptible to pest outbreaks, as pests can easily establish themselves without the diversity that companion planting provides, leaving plants more vulnerable to infestations.