Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

Which method is most effective for controlling weed growth before it matures?

1. Apply herbicide after rain

2. Apply when weeds are just germinating

3. Spray when active growth begins

4. Wait until weeds have fully matured

The correct answer is: Spray when active growth begins

The most effective method for controlling weed growth before it matures is to apply when weeds are just germinating. This is because targeting weeds during their germination phase offers the best opportunity to inhibit their development and prevent them from establishing a strong root system. By applying a herbicide or using other weed control measures at this early stage, you can significantly reduce the competition for resources that mature weeds would pose to desired plants. In contrast, applying herbicide after rain can lead to dilution of the chemical and potential runoff, which may compromise its effectiveness. Spraying when the weeds are in active growth may still yield results, but waiting until they are fully matured makes control much harder, as mature weeds have developed extensive root systems and are often more resilient to treatments. Therefore, acting during the germination phase is a proactive approach that can lead to more effective weed management.