What is the primary purpose of herbicides?

Herbicides are specifically designed to target and kill unwanted plant species, primarily weeds. These unwanted plants can compete with crops for essential resources such as sunlight, water, and nutrients, which can hinder crop growth and reduce yields. By effectively eliminating these weeds, herbicides help in maintaining the health of the crop and optimizing agricultural productivity. The use of herbicides allows farmers to manage weed infestations efficiently, reducing the need for manual weeding and thus saving time and labor costs associated with crop management. This targeted action on weeds distinguishes herbicides from other types of agricultural chemicals that might aim to promote growth, kill pests, or enhance soil quality.