Which pest management method uses plowing to control weeds?

• A. Exclusion
• B. Cultivation
• C. Sanitation
• D. Habitat modification

Answer: (B)

Cultivation is a mechanical weed-control method that uses plowing to disrupt weed growth. By turning and mixing the soil, tillage uproots young weeds, buries weed seeds and seedlings, and reduces their access to light and nutrients. This lowers weed pressure for the crop and can lessen reliance on herbicides when used as part of an integrated program. The effectiveness depends on timing and depth—shallow tillage may miss established weeds, while overly deep tillage can bring more weed seeds to the surface or harm the crop and soil structure. Cultivation works best for annual weeds that germinate near the soil surface and are susceptible to disturbance, and it pairs well with other practices to maintain soil health and reduce erosion.

Exclusion relies on barriers to prevent pests from entering an area, sanitation involves removing and cleaning up pest sources, and habitat modification changes the environment to deter pests—none of these involve using plowing to control weeds.