4.3+Controlling+Weeds+and+Pests

A pest is any organism that is causing plants to produce less than they otherwise would.

4.3 Controlling Weeds and Pests

pest is any organism that is causing plants to produce less than they otherwis would. When

organisms are part of a natural ecosystem, or are beneficial to people, then they are not pests. In

natural systems, organisms have parasites, predators, or competing plants that help to keep their

numbers in check. There are many different kinds of pests.

Pests which cause the most problems are:

• Insects (are consumers, because they eat some or all of the plant)

• Fungi (cause infections which can destroy all or part of the plant)

• Weeds (Common Weeds) (are thieves, because they steal moisture, nutrients, light and

space from the plant crop)

Weeds:

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Insects as pests:

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Insect benefits:

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Please research the following concepts and place your links and videos on a shared GOOGLE DOC.

1) Where did dandelions originate from? Why are they considered pests in North America?

2) What are some ways pests can be controlled?