What defines a soil-applied herbicide?

A soil-applied herbicide is specifically designed to be applied to the soil rather than to the leaves of plants. This type of herbicide works primarily by controlling the growth of weeds and undesirable plants during their seedling stage. When applied to the soil, it can be absorbed by the roots of emerging seedlings, effectively preventing them from establishing and growing.

The nature of how soil-applied herbicides function allows them to provide residual control, meaning that they continue to suppress weeds for a period after application. This is crucial for effective weed management in agricultural settings as it ensures that the herbicide can target new weed growth over time without needing frequent reapplication.

In contrast, other options describe different application methods or uses that do not align with the definition of soil-applied herbicides. For instance, applying to plant leaves discusses foliar herbicides that work through leaf absorption rather than soil application. The mention of exclusive use on turfgrass does not characterize soil-applied herbicides, as they can be used in various settings, including crops and ornamental landscaping. Lastly, incorporating herbicides into plant tissue directly suggests a method more akin to systemic herbicides, which operate through the plant’s vascular system rather than targeting the soil environment.