Why is it critical for herbicides to be absorbed effectively by plants?

The primary reason for herbicides to be absorbed effectively by plants is to maximize their effectiveness in controlling unwanted vegetation. Herbicides function by entering the plant system and disrupting physiological processes, which leads to the plant's death or suppression. Effective absorption ensures that the active ingredients reach the target site within the plant where they can be most impactful.

When herbicides are absorbed well, they can move through the plant's tissues, reaching the areas where they can interrupt growth or other vital processes. This is particularly vital for aquatic herbicides, as they must penetrate the cellular structures of submerged or floating plants. Without adequate absorption, the herbicide might not achieve a sufficient concentration at the target site, leading to reduced efficacy and potentially requiring higher application rates or multiple treatments.

While factors such as leaching into the soil and avoiding phytotoxicity impacts on desired plants are important considerations in herbicide application, they are not the primary purpose of why effective absorption is critical for controlling unwanted vegetation. Revenue losses from ineffective herbicide applications or unintended damage to desirable species can also arise, but the crux of effective use remains in ensuring the herbicide performs its intended function efficiently.