What term refers to the method plants use to die or become damaged due to environmental factors or chemicals?

The term that describes the method through which plants die or become damaged due to environmental factors or chemicals is phytotoxicity. This concept specifically refers to the toxic effects that certain substances can have on plants, leading to injury or death. Phytotoxicity encompasses various symptoms such as leaf burn, stunted growth, and discoloration, which can result from a range of external influences including herbicides, fungicides, or environmental stressors like extreme temperatures or drought conditions.

While plant stress does relate to the broader impacts that environmental factors can have on plant health, it does not specifically capture the harmful effects of chemicals or toxic substances. Environmental damage is a more general term that might describe any adverse effect on plants due to various environmental conditions but lacks the specificity of chemical toxicity. Foliar distress, on the other hand, typically refers to visible damage on the leaves particularly, rather than a comprehensive description of the process of toxin-induced damage to the plant as a whole.

Understanding phytotoxicity is crucial for professionals in the field of horticulture and pesticide application, as it helps in assessing the risks associated with different chemicals and environmental conditions, ensuring safe and effective use of pesticides.