How does irrigation management assist in pest control?

Irrigation management plays a crucial role in pest control by minimizing excess moisture in the environment, which helps to reduce the incidence of plant diseases. When irrigation is managed effectively, the risk of waterlogging and puddling is decreased, leading to healthier soil and plant conditions. Overly saturated soils can create a breeding ground for fungal diseases and other pathogens that thrive in wet environments. By controlling the amount and timing of water applied, pests and diseases can be kept in check, ensuring plants remain healthy and resilient.

The other choices do not accurately convey the relationship between irrigation and pest management. For instance, while increasing moisture content in the soil may initially seem beneficial, excessive moisture without proper management can indeed lead to various diseases. Claiming that irrigation only hydrates plants overlooks its broader impact on plant health and pest dynamics, and suggesting that it makes plants more susceptible to pests misrepresents the importance of proper water management in maintaining plant vigor.