Which environmental factor can influence pest populations in ornamental landscapes?

The influence of temperature and humidity on pest populations in ornamental landscapes is significant because these factors affect both the biology of the pests and the health of the plants. Many insects thrive in specific temperature and humidity ranges; for instance, higher temperatures can increase insect development rates, reproduction, and overall population growth. Humidity plays a crucial role as well; many pests are more active in humid conditions, which also affects their susceptibility to natural enemies.

In contrast, while soil pH can impact plant health and potentially lead to less vigorous plants that may be more susceptible to pests, it does not directly influence pest population dynamics in the same way that temperature and humidity do. Similarly, fertilizer application primarily affects plant growth and nutrition but has a more indirect effect on pest populations. Sunlight exposure, while also essential for plant vitality, does not directly correlate with the densities of pests but rather with plant health, which may subsequently influence pest attraction or resistance.

Therefore, understanding how temperature and humidity shape pest dynamics can aid in developing effective management strategies in ornamental landscapes.