Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) Practice Exam

Which weed control method is recommended when all other means are impractical?

1. Herbicides

2. Hoeing

3. Mulching

4. Mowing

The correct answer is: Herbicides

Herbicides are often recommended as a weed control method when other means are impractical because they offer a targeted and efficient way to manage unwanted plant growth. In situations where physical methods like hoeing, mulching, or mowing may not be feasible—due to factors such as large weed infestations, challenging terrain, or the presence of delicate plants that could be harmed by physical intervention—herbicides can be a practical solution. Herbicides can be chosen based on their selectivity; some are designed to target specific weed species while leaving desirable plants unharmed. Additionally, they can be applied over a broad area, which may not be possible with manual methods that require more time and effort. Furthermore, herbicides can provide quick results, effectively reducing weed populations without the labor-intensive effort of other techniques. In contrast, hoeing, mulching, and mowing may not effectively control all types of weeds, particularly perennial species with deep roots or those in hard-to-reach areas. Therefore, in scenarios where practicality and efficiency are paramount, herbicides stand out as the most recommended approach.