Which component is critical for clean planting according to IP practices?

Field audits are essential for clean planting in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices because they help assess the fields for any potential issues, including pests, diseases, and weeds, before planting begins. Conducting thorough audits allows farmers to identify the presence of any contaminants or problematic organisms that could compromise the integrity of the crop. This proactive measure ensures that necessary actions can be taken to mitigate these risks, leading to healthier crops and better yields.

Manual harvesting, high nitrogen fertilization, and pest spraying do not address the preventative measures needed at the start of the planting process. While manual harvesting can reduce contamination from previous crops, it is not directly related to the cleanliness of planting. High nitrogen fertilization is focused on plant growth rather than the cleanliness or health of the planting environment. Pest spraying can help manage pests once they are identified, but without proper field audits, effective pest management cannot be initially established, making field audits the most critical component.