Can the control of woody plants be achieved through winter application of herbicides on stem bark?

The application of herbicides to the stem bark of woody plants during winter can indeed be an effective method for controlling their growth. This technique, often referred to as "bark application" or "basal bark treatment," allows the herbicide to penetrate the bark and reach the plant's vascular system. When applied properly in winter, the cold temperatures can slow the metabolism of the plants, which may enhance the herbicide's efficacy by allowing it to be more readily absorbed.

Additionally, many woody species are more susceptible to herbicide treatments during their dormant seasons, such as winter. In this state, the plants are less active metabolically, which can provide an opportunity for more effective treatment and minimize the risks to non-target species and surrounding vegetation.

While it's true that the effectiveness can vary between different species and that combining methods can enhance overall success in controlling woody plant populations, the winter application of herbicides on stem bark is a legitimate method in its own right to achieve control over unwanted woody vegetation.