Which type of herbicide prevents the growth of plants when present in the soil?

The correct choice is the type of herbicide that inhibits plant growth when present in the soil. Soil residual herbicides work primarily by being absorbed by the roots of emerging plants or through seed germination, thus preventing the establishment and growth of new plants. These herbicides remain active in the soil for a period of time, creating a chemical barrier that is particularly effective against a wide range of weeds, including annual and perennial species.

In contrast, contact herbicides act by killing only the plant parts that they touch without affecting the roots or any plant material below the surface. This means they do not have any residual effect in the soil to prevent future growth.

Selective herbicides target specific plants while leaving desirable plants unharmed. While they might remain in the soil, their primary function is not to prevent all plant growth indiscriminately.

Systemic herbicides are absorbed by the plant and move throughout its tissues, ultimately killing the entire plant. While they effectively eliminate targeted vegetation, they do not act on the soil to prevent the growth of new plants, making them unsuitable for long-term weed control in the soil.

Soil residual herbicides are ideal for establishing a long-term control strategy in turf and ornamental settings, making them the most effective choice for preventing weed growth