How did the soybean plants sustain damage if there was no wind during the herbicide application?

Herbicide volatilization refers to the process by which herbicides transition from a liquid state into vapor form. This can occur under certain environmental conditions, such as high temperatures or low humidity, especially immediately after an application. When herbicides volatilize, they can travel significant distances in their vapor form before settling onto nearby plants, such as soybean crops.

This is particularly significant in situations where there is no wind since the lack of airflow may lead to herbicides lingering in the air longer, potentially depositing onto neighboring plants. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for effectively managing herbicide applications and minimizing unintended damage to sensitive crops. The impact of volatilization emphasizes the importance of selecting the right herbicide formulation and timing of application to avoid adverse effects on non-target plants nearby.