Biological and chemical insect controls are closely related to what factors?

Biological and chemical insect controls are closely related to where, when, and how insects develop because understanding the life cycle and behavior of insects is crucial for effective pest management. Knowledge of their developmental stages, habitat preferences, and time of activity allows horticulturists to time their interventions accurately. For instance, identifying the right moment when an insect is most vulnerable or when a particular life stage is present can enhance the effectiveness of both biological controls (like beneficial predators or parasites) and chemical controls (pesticides). By considering these developmental factors, pest control strategies can be optimized to reduce pest populations while minimizing impact on non-target organisms and the environment.

In contrast, while cost-effectiveness, soil health, and weather patterns can influence pest management decisions, they do not directly relate to the mechanisms of pest development and behavior as closely as the specified factors do.