What is one effect of herbicides on targeted crops?

When herbicides are applied correctly, they are designed to target and eliminate specific weeds that may compete with crops for nutrients, water, and sunlight. By effectively managing weed populations, herbicides can help create a more favorable growing environment for the desired crops. However, this does not mean that herbicides will have a positive effect on the crops themselves. In fact, if herbicides do not affect the targeted crops, it indicates that the application has been successful and precise, meaning the crops remain unaffected by the chemical treatment.

In this context, option D highlights that when herbicides are used properly, they do not negatively impact the crops, allowing them to thrive without interference from competing vegetation. This underscores the importance of careful application and correct usage as part of an integrated weed management strategy, ensuring that the herbicides affect only the intended targets and not the crops themselves.