Defoliant: meaning, definitions and examples

agriculture, chemical

A defoliant is a chemical agent used to remove leaves from plants, particularly crops, to facilitate harvesting or to promote the ripening of fruit. It works by disrupting the natural process of photosynthesis, impairing the plant’s ability to produce food. Defoliants are often utilized in agriculture to enhance yield and simplify the harvesting process. However, their use can be controversial due to environmental concerns and potential toxicity to other plants and animals.

chemical agent, herbicide, pesticide

Examples of usage

• Farmers applied the defoliant before the cotton harvest.

• The use of defoliants can lead to increased crop yields.

• Some defoliants can negatively affect local ecosystems.