A weed is any plant growing in a place where it is not

wanted. It is an unwanted plant found majorly on the

farmland which makes planting of crops difficult.
Harmful effects of weeds on crops
and animals
1) Weeds compete with agricultural crops for
water, light, plant nutrients and space.

2) They grow faster than crops and so choke

crops to death.

3) Some weeds seed mix with maize and other

crops therefore reducing their quality and market
value.
Beneficial effects of weeds
i) Some weeds are source of food for
man and to farm animals
ii) Leguminous weeds help to improve soil
fertility

iii) Weeds are used to control erosion.

Characteristics of
Weeds
i) They have fast growth.

ii) Easily dispersed i.e can

spread easily
.
iii) Long dormancy i.e it can
remain in the soil for a long time.
CONTROL OF WEEDS
Cultural Method: This involves all the activities carried out on the farm
that can help to control weed e.g. crop rotation, burning, mulching etc.

Biological Method: This involves the use of natural enemies of weed

plants to control the growth of weed seeds. Enemies like insects or cattle
that are grazers to feed on the weeds.

Chemical Method: This is the use of chemical i.e. herbicides e.g.

grammoxone or paraquat to destroy weeds. Note the use of chemicals can
lead to- i. Pollution of soil ii. Pollution of ground water iii. Contamination
of livestock pasture etc.

Mechanical Method: This involves the use of powered tools/machines like

mowers, plough, harrow etc to cut the weeds

Manual Method: This includes hand or hand tools like the use of hoe to
deal with weeds.
EVALUATION

1) Define weeds

2) Explain three methods of controlling

weeds.

3) State three harmful effects of weeds on

crops.
Bravo !! welldone ,you all did well.

THANKS FOR LISTENING

MRS, BAMIDELE.
07032440140.