Which method is commonly used to manage plant diseases?

The method of exclusion is widely recognized as an effective strategy for managing plant diseases. Exclusion involves preventing pathogens from entering an area or infecting plants. This can include practices such as selecting disease-resistant plant varieties, implementing strict sanitation measures to eliminate potential sources of infection (like contaminated tools and materials), and utilizing physical barriers to keep pests and pathogens away from vulnerable plants. By creating conditions that inhibit the introduction and spread of diseases, exclusion helps protect plant health and maintain the integrity of the ecosystem.

Other methods like fertilization, irrigation, and pruning can play roles in plant care and management but do not directly target the prevention of disease. Fertilization supports plant growth and health, which can help plants resist diseases, but it does not prevent pathogens from entering or affecting plants. Similarly, irrigation is crucial for providing water to plants but may inadvertently create conditions favorable for disease if not managed properly. Pruning can enhance air circulation and remove diseased parts, but it is a reaction to existing problems rather than a preventive measure like exclusion.