What does a "reactive (curative) application" aim to achieve in pest management?

A "reactive (curative) application" in pest management is designed to address pest problems once they have been identified. This approach focuses on taking action to remedy an existing issue rather than preventing it from developing in the first place. In practical terms, this means applying appropriate insecticides or fungicides to control pests that are already causing damage to the turfgrass. The term "curative" indicates that the application intends to resolve or mitigate the problem rather than just managing its population or preventing its occurrence.

The other options describe different strategies in pest management. Preventing pest problems before they become noticeable falls under a proactive or preventive approach, aiming to avert any issues from arising. Controlling pests only after significant damage has occurred suggests a delayed response that may not always effectively restore the turfgrass's health or prevent further harm. Regularly monitoring pest populations without treatment represents an integrated pest management strategy that emphasizes surveillance and assessment rather than immediate action, which is distinct from the reactive method that seeks to cure active pest problems.