What is the impact of pests on nursery plants?

Pests have a significant negative impact on nursery plants, fundamentally affecting their health and growth. When pests infest plants, they can cause direct damage to various plant parts, such as leaves, stems, and roots. This damage can manifest in several ways, including leaf loss, wilting, stunted growth, and even plant death. When the structural integrity of the plant is compromised, it not only reduces overall growth but can also lead to diminished yields, especially in a commercial nursery setting where healthy plants are crucial for economic viability.

Additionally, pests may introduce diseases or create openings for pathogens, further exacerbating the stress on the plant. Therefore, understanding the detrimental effects of pests is vital for nursery management practices, including monitoring, identifying pest species, and implementing integrated pest management strategies to protect plant health and ensure successful growth.