Certified Crop Advisor Practice Exam

What must be considered when applying herbicides to resistant crops?

1. Timing

2. Drift

3. Soil type

4. Weather conditions

The correct answer is: Drift

When applying herbicides to resistant crops, one of the key considerations is drift. Drift refers to the unintended movement of herbicide particles or vapor away from the target area during or after application. Drift can negatively impact neighboring crops, non-target plants, and the surrounding environment. In the context of resistant crops, it is crucial to minimize drift to ensure that the herbicide application remains effective on the target resistant crop while protecting adjacent crops that may not be resistant. The herbicide's efficacy can diminish if it lands on non-target areas or if the timing and application methods permit drift, which can result in damage to sensitive plants and lead to issues with pesticide regulations and public perception. While timing, soil type, and weather conditions are also important factors that influence herbicide application, they primarily relate to the effectiveness of the herbicide and its absorption into the plant or the soil. However, drift specifically addresses the concern of unintended exposure to surrounding vegetation, making it paramount in the context of using herbicides on resistant crops.