Which of the following is an example of a cultural control?

• A. Genetic modification
• B. Installing pheromone traps
• C. Plant spacing
• D. Using chemical pesticides

Answer: (C)

Cultural control consists of practices that change the environment or how the crop is grown to reduce pest pressure, rather than attacking pests with chemicals or relying on genetic traits. Plant spacing is a classic example because adjusting how closely plants are placed changes canopy density, airflow, and leaf wetness. When plants are spaced more apart, there’s better air movement and quicker drying of leaf surfaces, which makes conditions less favorable for many pests and diseases and can also help natural enemies access pests more easily. This preventative approach reduces pest establishment and spread as part of an integrated pest management strategy.

The other options illustrate different kinds of control: genetic modification involves altering the plant’s genetics for resistance; installing pheromone traps targets pest behavior for monitoring or disruption rather than changing the environment; using chemical pesticides directly kills pests with chemicals.