What type of applied control involves the use of plants that are naturally resistant to pests?

Cultural applied control is the correct choice because this method involves the use of agricultural practices that enhance plant health and reduce the impact of pests. By utilizing plant varieties that exhibit natural resistance to specific pests, farmers can effectively manage pest populations through biological means, promoting a healthier ecosystem.

In this approach, the focus is on sustainable practices that enhance soil health, crop rotation, and selecting appropriate plant species, which can lead to increased resilience against pests and diseases. By selecting plants that are more tolerant or resistant, growers can reduce the need for chemical interventions and promote biodiversity in their agricultural systems.

The other types of control mentioned, such as mechanical/physical, regulatory, and integrated pest management, do not primarily emphasize the cultivation of resistant varieties as a form of pest management, thereby making them less relevant in this context. Mechanical/physical control focuses on physical methods to remove pests, regulatory control involves policies to prevent pest introduction or spread, and integrated pest management encompasses a broader strategy that may include cultural practices but is not limited to the use of resistant plants.