Why is using resistant turf cultivars beneficial for pest management?

Why is using resistant turf cultivars beneficial for pest management?

• A. They reduce susceptibility to pests and diseases, lowering chemical input needs and promoting sustainable turf health.
• B. They always require more fertilizer and water.
• C. They guarantee complete immunity to all pests.
• D. They are more expensive with no practical benefits.

Answer: (A)

Using resistant turf cultivars relies on genetics that limit pest damage and disease, so the plants stay healthier with less feeding and injury. That means you need fewer chemical controls, which lowers input costs and supports sustainable turf health. The protection is not absolute—resistance varies by pest and environment—but the overall effect is reduced reliance on pesticides and better long-term pest management. Other statements aren’t accurate because resistance doesn’t guarantee immunity to all pests, and input needs aren’t universally higher; while initial costs may exist, the savings from reduced chemical use and healthier turf often outweigh them.

Using resistant turf cultivars relies on genetics that limit pest damage and disease, so the plants stay healthier with less feeding and injury. That means you need fewer chemical controls, which lowers input costs and supports sustainable turf health. The protection is not absolute—resistance varies by pest and environment—but the overall effect is reduced reliance on pesticides and better long-term pest management. Other statements aren’t accurate because resistance doesn’t guarantee immunity to all pests, and input needs aren’t universally higher; while initial costs may exist, the savings from reduced chemical use and healthier turf often outweigh them.