A stressed plant is susceptible to disease and insect attack.
Borers always occur first in trees and shrubs weakened by overwatering or underwatering.
A not so robust, sparse lawn is quickly invaded by a variety of weeds. Diseases infest damaged plants, those where the bark, the first line of defense against intruders, is damaged. Without stress and damage, and with proper care, plants grow normally and resist most invaders. Sound IPM begins with plant selection. A properly selected plant, correctly cared for will remain healthy to ward off pests.