Which approach can NOT be considered part of an integrated pest management plan?

Utilizing chemical pesticides exclusively cannot be considered part of an integrated pest management (IPM) plan because IPM emphasizes a holistic approach to managing pests that integrates multiple strategies rather than relying on a single method. An effective IPM plan employs a combination of techniques, including biological controls (e.g., natural predators or beneficial organisms), cultural controls (practices that enhance plant health and resilience), and monitoring of pest populations to assess the need for intervention.

By focusing solely on chemical pesticides, a strategy may overlook the potential benefits of these other approaches, which can improve sustainability, reduce resistance, and minimize environmental impact. An IPM approach aims to use pesticides in a targeted manner, only when necessary and as part of a broader strategy that encompasses prevention, monitoring, and control techniques.