What are "soil sterilants" used for?

Soil sterilants are specifically designed to eliminate all forms of plant growth in the soil. This includes not just weeds, but also desirable plants, effectively rendering the soil uninhabitable for further plant life for a certain period of time. The purpose of using soil sterilants can vary but often includes preparing land for construction, controlling invasive species, or eradicating pathogens and pests present in the soil that can harm crops.

Options that suggest promoting healthy soil bacteria, enhancing seed germination rates, or providing nutrients to the soil are not aligned with the function of soil sterilants. These alternatives focus on cultivating healthy soil conditions or supporting plant life, which contradicts the primary use of soil sterilants, which is to clear soil of all vegetation. This distinction is crucial for understanding the applications and implications of using soil sterilants in agricultural and landscaping practices.