Herbicides are substances used to control unwanted plants, commonly known as weeds. They play a crucial role in agriculture by preventing weeds from competing with crops for nutrients, water, and sunlight. There are two main types of herbicides:
Selective herbicides: Target specific weed species while leaving crops unharmed.
Non-selective herbicides: Kill all plants they come into contact with.
Historically, weed control involved manual methods like tilling and altering soil conditions. The first major breakthrough in chemical herbicides came during World War II with the development of 2,4-D, which allowed for selective weed control in cereal crops.
Modern herbicides are widely used in agriculture, forestry, and even urban landscaping to maintain clear spaces and prevent invasive plant species from spreading. However, their use must be carefully managed to avoid environmental damage and resistance in weeds.
