Which of the following is a common characteristic of systemic herbicides?

Systemic herbicides are designed to be absorbed by the plant and then transported throughout its tissues. This characteristic allows them to affect various parts of the plant, including stems, leaves, and roots, which is essential for effectively controlling a wide range of weeds. Unlike contact herbicides that only affect the parts of the plant they touch, systemic herbicides can provide more comprehensive action against target species, leading to their eventual death.

By being absorbed and translocated, these herbicides can target growth processes at a cellular level, disrupting essential functions like photosynthesis and nutrient transport, which contributes to their efficacy over time. This capability is particularly important in managing aquatic weeds, where water conditions may limit the effectiveness of non-systemic options.