What is the defining characteristic of a nonselective herbicide?

The defining characteristic of a nonselective herbicide is that it generally controls most plants where complete control is desired. Nonselective herbicides are designed to kill or damage a wide variety of plant species, rather than targeting specific types. This makes them particularly useful for applications such as clearing vegetation in areas where no plants are wanted, such as sidewalks or driveways, or preparing a site for construction or landscaping.

Other options describe characteristics that do not align with nonselective herbicides. For instance, targeting specific parasitic plants pertains to selective herbicides, which are designed to affect certain weeds or pests without harming desired plants. Nonselective herbicides are not typically safe for all types of vegetation; rather, they kill most plants indiscriminately. Additionally, limiting effectiveness to only flowering plants does not characterize these herbicides, as their impact encompasses various plant types, regardless of their flowering status.