What is the main goal of a basal application method?

The main goal of a basal application method is to apply herbicide to the bark of a tree. This technique is particularly effective for controlling unwanted woody plants by directing the herbicide to the area where it can be absorbed through the bark and transported to the root system. The herbicide can then disrupt the plant's growth processes, leading to its death.

This method is advantageous because it minimizes the impact on surrounding vegetation and soil, making it suitable for use in sensitive environments. It also allows for effective control of targeted species while reducing the risk of non-target impacts associated with other application methods that might involve treating foliage or ground cover.

In contrast, covering foliage or treating higher branches does not directly affect the root system where the herbicide needs to reach for effective control. Similarly, killing vegetation at ground level may not lead to the same targeted effect on the growth of trees, which is the primary concern for the basal application strategy.