What is the main characteristic of a non-selective herbicide?

The main characteristic of a non-selective herbicide is that it affects all types of plants. Non-selective herbicides are designed to kill or damage any plant material they come into contact with, regardless of the species. This makes them particularly useful for tasks such as clearing large areas of vegetation, managing weeds in industrial sites, or preparing areas for new plantings by eliminating existing flora. Because they do not discriminate between different types of plants, careful application is crucial to minimize damage to desired plants nearby.

In contrast to this characteristic, selective herbicides specifically target certain types of plants, thereby sparing others. Some herbicides may require multiple applications to achieve desired results due to factors like plant growth stages or environmental conditions. Non-selective herbicides are not limited to use in residential areas; they are utilized in various environments, including agricultural, industrial, and landscape management settings.