Oldest cheapest, and most effective method of disease control?

Oldest cheapest, and most effective method of disease control?

• A. Planting resistant varieties
• B. Using chemical sprays
• C. Crop rotation
• D. Hand-picking

Answer: (A)

Using resistant varieties relies on the plant’s own genetics to prevent disease from taking hold. This approach has been used for generations, which is why it’s considered the oldest method, and it often requires the least ongoing input because infected plants are less common and yield is protected automatically. By stopping infection at the source, fewer crops are damaged and fewer sprays or treatments are needed, making it the most economical option over time. Resistance isn’t a perfect guarantee in every case—pathogens can evolve and some diseases don’t have strong resistant varieties yet. That’s why robust disease management often combines resistant varieties with other practices, like sanitation and, where feasible, rotation. Still, when available, planting resistant varieties provides broad, durable protection with the lowest ongoing cost, making it the best overall choice in many situations.

Using resistant varieties relies on the plant’s own genetics to prevent disease from taking hold. This approach has been used for generations, which is why it’s considered the oldest method, and it often requires the least ongoing input because infected plants are less common and yield is protected automatically. By stopping infection at the source, fewer crops are damaged and fewer sprays or treatments are needed, making it the most economical option over time.

Resistance isn’t a perfect guarantee in every case—pathogens can evolve and some diseases don’t have strong resistant varieties yet. That’s why robust disease management often combines resistant varieties with other practices, like sanitation and, where feasible, rotation. Still, when available, planting resistant varieties provides broad, durable protection with the lowest ongoing cost, making it the best overall choice in many situations.