Why are woody plants effectively controlled with translocated herbicides after seed production?

Translocated herbicides are specifically designed to move through the plant's vascular system, allowing them to reach and affect all parts of the plant effectively. After seed production, many woody plants enter a phase where they are actively translocating materials downward, particularly to stored resources in the roots—a process that can be intensified as they prepare for dormancy or conserve energy after the energy expenditure involved in seed production.

During this stage, the plants are drawing energy and nutrients from the leaves and stems down to the roots, which creates the ideal conditions for the herbicide to be absorbed and distributed throughout the plant. This is critical for effectively managing woody vegetation because it allows the herbicide to impact not just the foliage but also the root system, ultimately leading to a more successful control of the plant.

While the other options describe various states that could be associated with plant growth or decline, they do not align with the specific mechanism of action related to translocated herbicides after seed production.