Which condition may increase the likelihood of pest attraction to plants?

Which condition may increase the likelihood of pest attraction to plants?

• A. Natural sunlight exposure
• B. Under-watering plants
• C. Over-fertilized or stressed plants
• D. Healthy soil composition

Answer: (C)

The condition of over-fertilized or stressed plants significantly contributes to increased pest attraction. When plants receive excessive fertilizer, this often leads to rapid growth that can make them more susceptible to pests. The high nitrogen levels from over-fertilizing can create lush, tender growth that many pests find appealing, as they are drawn to the rich, succulent tissues of such plants. Furthermore, stressed plants, whether due to over-fertilization, poor watering practices, or other environmental factors, can produce stress signals or chemical compounds that attract pests. Healthy plants, by contrast, have better natural defenses and are less attractive to pests, making the condition of being over-fertilized and stressed a key factor in pests being drawn to them.

The condition of over-fertilized or stressed plants significantly contributes to increased pest attraction. When plants receive excessive fertilizer, this often leads to rapid growth that can make them more susceptible to pests. The high nitrogen levels from over-fertilizing can create lush, tender growth that many pests find appealing, as they are drawn to the rich, succulent tissues of such plants. Furthermore, stressed plants, whether due to over-fertilization, poor watering practices, or other environmental factors, can produce stress signals or chemical compounds that attract pests. Healthy plants, by contrast, have better natural defenses and are less attractive to pests, making the condition of being over-fertilized and stressed a key factor in pests being drawn to them.