Which areas are particularly vulnerable to herbicide applications?

Herbicide applications can significantly impact ornamental plantings because these areas often consist of a variety of sensitive species that can be adversely affected by chemicals. Ornamental plants are typically more delicate and may not have the same level of resistance as other plants might. Moreover, these plants are often intended for aesthetic appeal, and any damage from herbicides can lead to visible harm, such as leaf burn or wilting, which can diminish their ornamental value and attractiveness.

In contrast, areas like lawns and gardens, while also at risk, tend to have a greater tolerance due to the types of turf and common garden plants that are often more robust. Food crops, although they face their own set of vulnerabilities, are usually subjected to stricter regulations concerning herbicide applications due to safety for human consumption. Public parks do have ornamental plantings, but they also often include a mix of more resilient plant types that could tolerate certain herbicide exposures better than specialized ornamental plants. Thus, these factors jointly contribute to why ornamental plantings are particularly vulnerable to herbicide applications.