In IPM, which category of controls is prioritized before chemical controls?

• A. Chemical controls only
• B. Cultural, mechanical, and biological methods
• C. Mechanical methods only
• D. Biological methods only

Answer: (B)

IPM emphasizes using non-chemical strategies first—cultural, mechanical, and biological methods—before turning to chemical controls. Cultural practices like proper spacing, sanitation, crop rotation, and selecting resistant varieties reduce pest establishment and spread. Mechanical methods such as physical barriers, traps, and manual removal directly reduce pest numbers without chemicals. Biological controls rely on natural enemies—predators, parasitoids, and microbial agents—to keep pest populations in check. Together, these approaches lower pest pressure, protect beneficial organisms, and minimize environmental impact and resistance development. Only after monitoring shows pest levels exceed a threshold should chemical controls be used, and even then, they should be targeted and used sparingly as a last resort.