Which of the following is a method of mechanical pest control?

Hand-picking pests is a widely recognized method of mechanical pest control that involves physically removing pests from plants or areas where they are causing damage. This technique is particularly effective for larger pests such as beetles, caterpillars, and slugs, which can be easily spotted and removed by hand. It not only eliminates pests but also avoids the use of chemical pesticides, making it an environmentally friendly approach and reducing potential harm to beneficial insects.

In contrast, chemical sprays are a form of chemical pest control rather than a mechanical method, as they rely on substances that break down pest populations through toxic effects. Fertilizing with compost does not directly address pest control and instead focuses on enhancing soil health and plant growth. Planting insect-repelling plants may help deter pests, but this approach is more about creating a repellent environment rather than the direct physical removal of pests, which characterizes mechanical control techniques.