What is phytotoxicity?

What is phytotoxicity?

• A. Injury or damage to a sensitive plant caused by chemical exposure
• B. Injury to pests caused by chemicals
• C. Growth stimulation by fertilizer
• D. Plant disease caused by fungi

Answer: (A)

Phytotoxicity is plant injury caused by exposure to chemicals. In turf care, this means a non-target plant or turf can be harmed when herbicides, pesticides, fertilizers, adjuvants, or tank-mixes are misapplied, at improper rates, or under conditions that increase uptake. Symptoms can include leaf burn or scorch, chlorosis, necrosis, curling, stunting, or overall decline in appearance. This concept is about the plant being harmed by a chemical, not about harming pests, stimulating growth with fertilizer, or a disease caused by fungi. Drift, compatibility issues, incorrect timing, or applying at too high a rate are common ways phytotoxicity occurs, so following label directions, calibrating equipment, and considering environmental conditions helps prevent it.

Phytotoxicity is plant injury caused by exposure to chemicals. In turf care, this means a non-target plant or turf can be harmed when herbicides, pesticides, fertilizers, adjuvants, or tank-mixes are misapplied, at improper rates, or under conditions that increase uptake. Symptoms can include leaf burn or scorch, chlorosis, necrosis, curling, stunting, or overall decline in appearance.

This concept is about the plant being harmed by a chemical, not about harming pests, stimulating growth with fertilizer, or a disease caused by fungi. Drift, compatibility issues, incorrect timing, or applying at too high a rate are common ways phytotoxicity occurs, so following label directions, calibrating equipment, and considering environmental conditions helps prevent it.