Associational resistance in the milpa: herbivore-induced maize volatiles enhance extrafloral nectar-mediated defenses in common bean via shared parasitoids.

Mixed cropping systems typically provide better natural pest control compared with monocultures, although the success varies depending on the crop and cultivar combinations. Understanding trait interactions that confer associational resistance (AR) to companion plants is key to optimizing these benefits. The Mesoamerican milpa system, known for its pest resistance, provides a model for studying these interactions.