What is a systemic pesticide?

A systemic pesticide is one that is absorbed by the plant and then distributed throughout its tissues, effectively allowing it to act from within. This is particularly advantageous for targeting pests that may be feeding on or within the plant, as the pesticide will be present in all sap and tissues rather than just on the surface.

Unlike surface pesticides, which only provide protection to external surfaces, systemic pesticides offer a more comprehensive approach by working through the plant's vascular system. This internal distribution means that even pests that are feeding on the plant's internal structures can be affected, making systemic pesticides highly effective against a variety of pest species.

In contrast, other options describe different types of pesticides or application methods. For instance, surface application is more about topical treatments that may leave some pests unharmed if they are not in immediate contact with the treated area, while contact pesticides require direct interaction to be effective. The option mentioning large quantities pertains to application rates rather than the mechanism of action, which does not define a systemic pesticide.