Abstract

Agrestals are small plants (weeds) in the agricultural field which have had a huge impact on agriculture through the ages, and they continue to effect agricultural practices today. Generally, weeds are plants said to grow where they are not wanted. They compete with crops for water, nutrients, light and space thus reduce crop yields, but not all weeds are undesirable. In many systems, weeds are useful elements. Their useful roles are; raising the level of soil organic matter, improving the level of nitrogen availability, conserving moisture in the soil, serving as alternate edible and medicinal plant sources, they repel insects and other pests through their smell, act as trap crops, as well as, being inhabited by beneficial insects and some other are useful plants for mankind. The present study reveals that we surveyed (collection, identification, proper documentation and their uses) and details about these valuable weeds. A total twenty five (25) species were properly documented. These beneficial roles may build the agrestals a future bioresource for human welfare directly or indirectly.

Key words: Agrestals, organic matter, edible, medicinal plant, repel insects, trap crops, bioresource