What are weeds defined as in agriculture?

Weeds are defined in agriculture as unwanted plants that compete with crops for resources such as nutrients, water, sunlight, and space. This competition can hinder the growth and productivity of cultivated plants by absorbing valuable resources and potentially harboring pests and diseases that can further impact crop yields. Weeds can vary widely in species, and their presence can result in increased management costs for farmers, who must implement control measures to mitigate their effects on crop production.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the definition of weeds in the agricultural context. While some plants may enhance soil quality or be used for decoration, these characteristics do not align with the challenges posed by weeds in agricultural settings. Additionally, crops that yield higher harvests are beneficial rather than competing negatively with the intended crops. Therefore, the definition centered on unwanted competition accurately captures the essence of what constitutes weeds in agriculture.