Which control method is aimed at manipulating plants genetically?

Genetic control is focused on the manipulation of a plant's genetic makeup to achieve specific outcomes, such as resistance to pests, diseases, or herbicides. This method takes advantage of advances in biotechnology and genetic engineering to enhance desirable traits in plants or to create plants that are more competitive against weeds or pests. By directly altering the genes of a plant, this control method can lead to significant improvements in agricultural productivity and sustainability.

In contrast, cultural control practices involve managing farming practices and environmental conditions to suppress pests and diseases, while mechanical control relies on physical methods to eliminate or reduce pest populations. Biological control employs natural predators or pathogens to manage pest populations. Each of these methods operates differently from genetic control, which directly involves the genetic alteration of the plant organism itself.