Which method of pest management involves using plants that can withstand certain pathogens?

The method of pest management that involves using plants that can withstand certain pathogens is resistance. This approach focuses on integrating resistant plant varieties to minimize the impact of pests and diseases. By selecting or developing plants that have natural defense mechanisms against specific pathogens, growers can enhance crop survival and productivity without relying solely on chemical pesticides.

This method not only promotes sustainable agricultural practices by reducing the need for chemical inputs but also contributes to biodiversity by encouraging the cultivation of a variety of resistant species. As resistant plants thrive in the presence of pests and pathogens, they help to diminish the overall pest population over time, thereby supporting a balanced ecosystem.

In contrast, eradication refers to the complete removal of a pest species, protection involves preventative measures to shield plants from pests, and exclusion focuses on preventing pests from entering an area. While these methods are important components of integrated pest management, they do not specifically leverage the natural resistance of plants to address pest issues.