What characterizes a systemic herbicide?

A systemic herbicide is specifically designed to be absorbed and translocated throughout the plant, primarily via the phloem and xylem. This characteristic enables the herbicide to affect various parts of the plant, including leaves, stems, and roots. When a systemic herbicide is applied to one part of the plant, it moves through the vascular system, allowing it to reach and impact areas that may not be in immediate contact with the chemical.

This mobility is what differentiates systemic herbicides from contact herbicides, which only affect the parts of the plant to which they are directly applied. Systemic herbicides are often utilized for their ability to manage perennial weeds and deeply rooted plants, as they can kill the entire plant rather than just damaging the visible portions.

In contrast, options that suggest limitations to the leaves, rapid toxicity on contact, or an inability to enter roots do not accurately describe the broad capabilities of systemic herbicides. By understanding their movement through the plant's phloem, one can appreciate the effectiveness of systemic herbicides in managing various types of vegetation.