How does maximizing sunlight exposure benefit ornamental gardens regarding pests?

Maximizing sunlight exposure in ornamental gardens can effectively deter pests that thrive in humidity and shaded areas. Many pests, such as certain fungi, insects, and diseases, prefer cooler, humid environments typically found in shaded areas. By increasing sunlight exposure, the environment becomes less conducive to these pests, reducing their population and the potential for harm to the plants.

Sunlight helps to dry out plant foliage more quickly after rain, minimizing moisture, which is a key factor in the proliferation of many pest populations. Consequently, areas with more sunlight tend to experience lower instances of fungal diseases and insect infestations that would otherwise flourish in shadier environments.

The other options, while related to plant health, do not directly connect to pest management in the same way. For instance, faster plant growth and improved fertilizer effectiveness can enhance plant vigor, but they do not specifically address the relationship between sunlight, humidity, and pest presence. Nutrient provision to the soil also plays a role in overall plant health, but again, it does not speak directly to the impact on pest populations that sunlight exposure can have.