Weed

Weed is a term in botany that generally refers to any plant that is considered undesirable in a particular situation. The term is subjective and is applied based on human judgment. Weeds are plants that are considered to be growing out of place by humans.

Definition

A weed is a plant considered undesirable, unattractive, or troublesome, especially one that grows where it is not wanted and often in such numbers that it inhibits the growth and development of desirable plants. Weeds can be any plant that grows where it is not wanted. They can take any form and can vary depending on the geographical region and ecosystem.

Characteristics

Weeds share similar adaptations that give them advantages and allow them to proliferate in disturbed environments whose soil or natural vegetative cover has been damaged. Natural areas, including both wilderness and wildlife reserves, can be equally vulnerable to the detrimental effects of weeds.

Impact

Weeds have the potential to cause damage to agriculture by limiting crop growth and yield. They compete with crops for space, sunlight, water and nutrients, and can harbor pests and diseases that affect crops. Weeds can also cause problems for humans in non-agricultural contexts, such as residential areas, sports fields, and transportation corridors.

Control

Weed control is important in agriculture. Methods include hand cultivation with hoes, powered cultivation with cultivators, smothering with mulch, lethal wilting with high heat, burning, or chemical attack with herbicides.

See also

• Invasive species
• Pest (organism)
• Pesticide
• Herbicide

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