Why are companion planting methods employed in Integrated Pest Management?

Companion planting methods are employed in Integrated Pest Management because they can create beneficial interplant relationships that deter pests and enhance the growth of crops. Certain plants, when grown together, can provide a protective effect by repelling specific insects or attracting beneficial organisms such as pollinators and natural predators of pests. For example, planting marigolds alongside vegetables may deter nematodes and other harmful insects, while combinations like beans and corn can improve nutrient uptake and support each other's growth.

This practice not only contributes to pest management but also promotes a more balanced ecosystem within the crop environment, leading to healthier plants and potentially increased yields. By fostering these positive relationships, companion planting serves as a sustainable strategy that fits well into Integrated Pest Management, which seeks to minimize chemical input while managing pest populations effectively.

The other options do have valid points, but they do not fully capture the primary rationale behind companion planting in pest management. For instance, while maximizing crop yields can be a benefit within the practice, it is not the primary purpose of companion planting. Additionally, describing it solely as a traditional farming practice overlooks the critical role it plays in modern pest management strategies. Lastly, limiting the use of companion planting to ornamental plants is inaccurate, as it is widely applied in the cultivation