What is a pre-emergent herbicide?

A pre-emergent herbicide is specifically designed to be applied before weed seeds have a chance to germinate. These herbicides work by inhibiting the growth of seeds and preventing them from sprouting, effectively controlling weed populations before they can take root and compete with desired plants. This proactive approach to weed management helps maintain a healthier landscape or crop environment by reducing weed competition from the outset.

The other choices describe different types of herbicides or practices that do not fit the definition of pre-emergent herbicides. Targeting specific plants pertains to selective herbicides, which aim to control certain species without affecting others. Improving soil quality does not pertain to herbicides at all, as it describes a different aspect of soil management. Lastly, a herbicide used after weeds have emerged is classified as a post-emergent herbicide, which targets already visible unwanted plants rather than preventing their emergence.