What is a characteristic of herbicides in colder water temperatures?

In colder water temperatures, aquatic weeds typically do not actively grow, which significantly affects their response to herbicides. When the water temperature drops, especially below the optimal range needed for effective herbicide action, the metabolic processes of the plants slow down. This reduced activity means that the herbicides are often less effective because the target plants are not actively taking up the chemicals.

This is why it's understood that when water temperatures are colder, aquatic weeds show little to no response to the applied herbicides, as they are in a state of dormancy or very low metabolic activity. Effective herbicide application is generally associated with warmer water temperatures where plant growth is robust, allowing for better absorption and effects of the herbicides on the targeted aquatic vegetation.