Why are lower wind speeds preferred for pesticide application?

Lower wind speeds are preferred for pesticide application primarily because they significantly reduce drift. When pesticides are applied in windy conditions, tiny droplets can be carried away from the target area by the wind, potentially affecting non-target plants, wildlife, and human populations. By reducing wind speed, applicators can ensure that the pesticides remain where intended, enhancing effectiveness while minimizing environmental impact and unintended exposure. This is crucial for both safety and compliance with regulatory standards related to pesticide use.

While the other options may relate to some aspects of pesticide application, they do not address the critical concern of drift as directly as lower wind speeds do. Improved visibility, increased absorption, and faster application times, although important in certain contexts, do not have the same direct impact on the efficacy and environmental safety of the application process.