When applying a standard basal bark treatment, how thoroughly should you wet the lower part of the stems?

A standard basal bark treatment involves applying a herbicide mixed with an oil or a similar carrier to the lower part of the stems of woody plants. The goal of this treatment is to control unwanted vegetation while minimizing damage to desirable plants.

The correct answer indicates that the wetting should cover the area of 12-24 inches up the lower part of the stems. This range ensures that the herbicide penetrates the bark effectively and is absorbed by the plant. A thorough application in this range allows for adequate coverage to disrupt the vascular system of the plant, which is crucial for the herbicide to take effect.

Selecting a coverage area that is too short may not provide sufficient contact with the bark, leading to ineffective treatment, while going too high might accidentally affect non-target species or increase the risk of environmental impact. Therefore, the 12-24 inch coverage represents a balanced approach that optimizes the effectiveness of the treatment while still managing the potential risks involved.