Which of the following is true about selective herbicides?

Selective herbicides are designed to target specific types of plants while leaving desirable plants unaffected. This targeted action is based on the biochemical or physiological differences between the plants being treated, allowing selective herbicides to disrupt the growth processes of certain weeds without harming grasses, ornamental plants, or other crops. This characteristic makes them particularly valuable in maintaining the health of lawns and gardens, as they can effectively control unwanted weeds while preserving the desired foliage.

In contrast, options that suggest selective herbicides kill all plant species indiscriminately or are effective only on annual weeds do not accurately reflect the purpose and use of these chemicals. Furthermore, the claim that they have no residual effects in the soil ignores the fact that some selective herbicides can persist in the environment, potentially impacting non-target plants if they are reintroduced through soil movement or other means. Therefore, selective herbicides play a crucial role in integrated weed management by allowing for the control of specific weed populations without harming the surrounding ecosystem.