What effect do hard water conditions generally have on herbicide efficacy?

Hard water conditions generally lead to reduced herbicide efficacy. This reduction occurs because hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals can bind with the herbicide molecules, forming complexes that decrease the herbicide's availability and effectiveness. Consequently, when herbicides are applied in hard water, their ability to penetrate plant tissues or interact with target sites is compromised. This means that even though the herbicide is present, it may not perform as intended in controlling aquatic weeds. Understanding the influence of water quality on herbicide effectiveness is crucial for effective aquatic weed management practices.