Is mowing prior to applying herbicides considered good practice?

Mowing prior to applying herbicides can indeed lead to several complications, primarily impacting the effectiveness of the treatment. When vegetation is cut, the herbicide might have a more difficult time sticking to the target plants, particularly perennial weeds that rely on their leaves for the uptake of the chemical. By cutting the plants, you may remove significant leaf area needed for the herbicide to work effectively. Additionally, mowing can stress plants, potentially causing them to go into shock and affect their response to herbicides.

Furthermore, when vegetation is mowed, it can lead to regrowth, which could necessitate further applications of herbicides, making it less efficient and potentially more costly over time. Therefore, maintaining uncut plants allows for better adherence and absorption of herbicides, improving their effectiveness.

In the context of your chosen answer, mowing is not advisable as it can ultimately interfere with the desired outcomes of herbicide applications.