Which growth regulators are primarily applied to foliage for effectiveness?

The effectiveness of certain growth regulators applied to foliage is primarily associated with the active ingredients found in Banvel and Clarity. Both of these herbicides are known to act systemically after being absorbed through the foliage. They affect plant growth by disrupting hormonal balance, which can lead to various physiological responses in the plants, particularly in broadleaf species.

When applied to the foliage, these products can effectively control unwanted vegetative growth and assist in managing invasive species. The mode of action for Banvel and Clarity hinges on their ability to mimic plant hormones, which is crucial for their herbicidal action when applied directly to the leaves. This is particularly significant in right-of-way management, where selective control of specific plants is often required without damaging desirable vegetation.

Other options presented are not primarily recognized for their foliar application effectiveness. For instance, 2,4-D and MCPA are widely used for broadleaf weed control but do not exhibit the same level of specificity to foliage in managing growth. Likewise, Tordon and Garlon address different management needs, typically targeting woody plants and are not solely foliage-focused like the selected answer. Amino acid herbicides also do not align as closely with the specific mechanism of action that Banvel and Clarity