What stage of a crop’s development is most susceptible to insect damage?

The stage of a crop's development that is most susceptible to insect damage is during early growth. At this stage, plants are tender and vulnerable, having just emerged from the soil. The young seedlings have not yet developed the strong physical defenses that come with maturity, making them an easy target for a variety of pests. Additionally, the nutritional value of young plants attracts many herbivorous insects that can cause significant damage by feeding on the foliage and roots. Their small size and rapid growth can easily be interrupted, leading to stunted development or even plant loss.

In contrast, the flowering stage often sees stronger plants with more established defenses, while full maturity means that crops have completed their life cycle and are less susceptible to certain pests. The planting stage presents its own challenges, but it is the early growth period that poses the highest risk for initial infestations.