How do unhealthy plants relate to insect infestations?

Unhealthy plants often present various stress factors that make them more susceptible to insect infestations. When plants are weak due to factors such as nutrient deficiencies, improper watering, or environmental stressors, their natural defenses diminish. Healthy plants typically produce secondary metabolites and exhibit physical structures that deter pests and pathogens. In contrast, when a plant is unhealthy, it may have lower levels of these protective compounds and might not adequately respond to insect presence.

Additionally, unhealthy plants can signal to pests that they are an easier target. Insects may be drawn to the weakened state of the plant, as they often prefer plants that are already under stress. As a result, the likelihood of an insect infestation increases significantly in unhealthy plants compared to those that are robust and well-maintained.

The incorrect options reflect misconceptions about plant health and pest dynamics. For instance, some might think unhealthy plants are less likely to be attacked or that they remain unaffected, which overlooks the reality that pests specifically target weakened plants. Similarly, while beneficial insects play a role in pest control, they are typically drawn to healthy plants rather than unhealthy ones, where their presence is not as effective.