In the context of seed treatments, what does the term "systemic" mean?

The term "systemic" in the context of seed treatments refers to the ability of the treatment to be absorbed by the plant. When a substance is systemic, it means that once absorbed, it can move throughout the plant’s tissues, providing protection or other benefits not just at the site of application but throughout the entire organism. This is particularly important for controlling pests or diseases that may target various parts of the plant, ensuring comprehensive protection.

In contrast, treatments that affect only the surface of the seed do not offer this level of protection, as they can be washed away or degraded and may not penetrate the plant's tissues. Mechanical seed application methods relate to how seeds are treated or applied rather than the systemic nature of the treatment itself. Lastly, the duration of pesticide effectiveness pertains to how long a pesticide remains effective in controlling pests or diseases, which is not directly related to the systemic properties of a treatment. Therefore, the correct understanding of systemic treatment is that it involves absorption and distribution within the plant.