What distinguishes selective herbicides from non-selective herbicides?

Selective herbicides are designed to target specific types of plants while leaving others unharmed. This characteristic allows them to be used in various applications, particularly in situations where certain weeds or unwanted plants need to be controlled without damaging desirable crops or landscaping plants. For instance, a selective herbicide may be effective against broadleaf weeds but safe for grass, making it useful in maintaining lawns and gardens.

In contrast, non-selective herbicides kill or damage all types of plants they come into contact with. This makes them suitable for applications such as total vegetation control but limits their use where desirable plants are present. The other options do not accurately represent the characteristics of selective herbicides, as they incorrectly suggest that selective herbicides kill all plants, that non-selective herbicides are limited to aquatic environments, or that selective herbicides are restricted to indoor use.