How can a plant absorb systemic pesticides?

A plant can absorb systemic pesticides through both its roots and its leaves, making the combination of absorption in roots and leaves the correct response. Systemic pesticides are designed to be taken up by the plant's vascular system, allowing them to translocate throughout the plant, including stems, leaves, and even flowers. This absorption can occur when the pesticide is applied either to the soil (where roots can uptake the chemical) or to the foliage (where leaf surfaces can absorb the pesticide).

Absorption through roots enables the pesticide to enter the systemic circulation of the plant, ensuring an even distribution, while leaf surface contact allows for direct uptake. This dual channel of absorption reinforces the efficacy of systemic pesticides in managing pest problems. Products formulated for systemic action leverage both pathways to ensure comprehensive coverage and effectiveness in controlling pests throughout the plant.

Other options imply limitations on how pesticides can be absorbed. For example, suggesting that absorption occurs only through roots or only via leaf surface contact would exclude the important role of the other pathway, while the notion of uptake only through damaged areas misrepresents how systemic pesticides are designed to function, as they are effective on healthy tissues as well.