Which types of herbicides would typically be used for preventing weed growth before germination?

Pre-emergent herbicides are specifically designed to prevent weed growth before seeds have a chance to germinate. They work by creating a barrier in the soil that interferes with the germination and early development of weed seeds. These herbicides are applied to the soil surface before the target weeds begin to grow, making them an effective tool for weed control in various agricultural and landscaping practices.

In contrast, post-emergent herbicides are used after the weeds have already emerged from the soil. Selective herbicides target specific types of plants while leaving others unharmed, and they generally require active growth of the target weeds, which means they are not effective for preventing germination. Non-selective herbicides kill all types of plants they come into contact with, but they are also not intended for use before germination. By focusing on the use of pre-emergent herbicides, users can effectively manage weed populations and reduce competition for nutrients, water, and light in their desired plants.