Which practice can help maintain healthier plants and reduce disease occurrence?

Regularly rotating crops and maintaining soil health is essential for promoting healthier plants and reducing the occurrence of diseases. Crop rotation disrupts the life cycles of pests and diseases that may be specific to certain plants. By planting different species in succession, you effectively reduce the buildup of pathogens in the soil that could harm future crops. This practice helps to enhance soil fertility and structure, allowing for better water retention and nutrient uptake, ultimately leading to stronger plants that are more resistant to diseases.

In addition to crop rotation, maintaining soil health through practices such as adding organic matter, using cover crops, and ensuring proper pH levels further creates an conducive environment for robust plant growth. Healthy soil supports beneficial microorganisms that can outcompete or suppress harmful pathogens, enhancing the overall resilience of the plant community.

The other practices mentioned do not contribute positively to plant health or disease resistance. For example, using overly compact ground can hinder root growth and reduce air and water penetration, leading to stressed plants more susceptible to diseases. High-density planting can increase competition for nutrients and water, creating conditions that favor the spread of diseases due to reduced air circulation. Frequent application of pesticides may temporarily control pests but does not address underlying soil health issues and can lead to pesticide resistance and negative environmental impacts.