What is the purpose of desiccation in site preparation?

Desiccation in site preparation serves the purpose of controlling unwanted vegetation. By drying out and reducing moisture in the soil, desiccation effectively weakens or kills off competing plants, particularly weeds that may inhibit the growth of desired species. This helps create a more favorable environment for the establishment of new plants, as it reduces competition for resources such as water, light, and nutrients. The process is particularly important when preparing a site for planting, as it ensures that the young seedlings or saplings have the best chance of survival and healthy growth by minimizing the presence of aggressive or invasive flora that could outcompete them.