Which practice would be considered a method of exclusion?

The method of exclusion is a strategy aimed at preventing pests or diseases from entering a specific area, thereby minimizing their impact on plants or crops. Planting cover crops serves this purpose by creating a physical barrier or a competitive environment that deters pests and diseases in the soil and surrounding area. By using certain crops that are not susceptible to the prevalent diseases, you effectively reduce the chances of infection and manage pest populations.

The other practices listed do not fit the definition of exclusion as directly. Using broad-spectrum pesticides could manage existing pest problems rather than excluding them. Implementing soil erosion controls focuses more on soil conservation and environmental protection rather than pest exclusion. Digesting organic matter into soil is a process that enriches the soil but does not prevent pests or diseases from entering the ecosystem. Thus, planting cover crops stands out as a clear exclusion method aimed at disease prevention in a proactive manner.