What is the primary purpose of using pesticides?

The primary purpose of using pesticides is to control pests. Pesticides are substances specifically formulated to kill, repel, or otherwise manage various types of pests, including insects, weeds, fungi, and other organisms that can be detrimental to crops, human health, and the environment. Their primary role is to protect agricultural produce and maintain public health by reducing the populations of harmful pests.

While enhancing plant growth, fertilizing soil, and improving water retention are important practices in agriculture and gardening, they are not the primary functions of pesticides. These other practices typically involve different products or approaches, such as fertilizers for nutrient supply or soil amendments for water retention, rather than pest control.