Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This question tests knowledge of plant interactions.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Allelopathy is the smothering of one group of plants by another through the secretion of certain chemicals.
Commensalism (A): One benefits, other is unaffected.
Symbiosis (B): Both benefit.
Mutualism (D): Both benefit.
Thus, the correct answer is allelopathy.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, smothering through chemicals is allelopathy, which corresponds to option (C).
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