Which herbicide class is most likely to cause drift due to their low application rates?

Phenoxy herbicides are a class that is particularly prone to drift mainly due to their low recommended application rates and their volatility. These herbicides, which are often used for broadleaf weed control, can easily become airborne, especially under certain environmental conditions, such as high temperatures or low humidity. Their small particle size and the tendency to volatilize can lead to unintended movement away from the target area, posing a risk of damage to non-target plants.

Understanding the characteristics of different herbicide classes aids in recognizing their potential risks during application. Non-selective herbicides are designed to kill a wide range of plants and may not drift in the same way, as they are often applied at higher rates. Selective herbicides usually target specific plants and may have different properties that affect drift potential. Systemic herbicides work within the plant systems but are not specifically associated with drift issues caused by low application rates to the extent that phenoxy herbicides are. Thus, acknowledging the unique volatility and low application traits of phenoxy herbicides is essential in herbicide management practices to minimize drift.