Which plant parts are most susceptible to injury from insecticides?

• A. Flowers and flower buds
• B. Leaves
• C. Roots
• D. Stems

Answer: (A)

Insecticide injury is greatest in tissues that are actively growing and developing. Flowers and flower buds fit that description perfectly because they are rapidly cell-division stages with delicate, tender tissues. When a pesticide is absorbed or translocated within the plant, these developing floral parts can accumulate higher concentrations, making them especially susceptible to phytotoxic effects. That can show up as distorted petals, petal burn, or buds dropping before they open, and it can also reduce fruit set. Leaves, stems, and roots can be injured as well under certain conditions, but floral tissues tend to be the most vulnerable, especially when spraying during bloom or when systemic products reach developing flowers.