What describes a "systemic fungicide"?

A systemic fungicide is defined by its ability to be absorbed by the plant and then translocated throughout its tissues. This means that after application, the fungicide can move within the plant to reach areas where pathogens may be present, including roots and stems, as well as leaves. This mobility allows systemic fungicides to effectively combat a range of diseases that may not be limited to just those affecting the surface or foliage of the plant.

This intrinsic property of systemic fungicides makes them particularly valuable in managing diseases that are not merely superficial or could be missed by treatments that only affect the parts of the plant that are directly sprayed. In contrast, fungicides that are limited to surface application may only provide a short-term solution for foliar infections, requiring more frequent applications to maintain efficacy against recurring disease. Thus, the absorption and translocation capabilities of systemic fungicides enhance their effectiveness in providing longer-lasting and comprehensive disease management for cool-season turfgrasses.