The The Potential Benefits of Weeds in Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) in Highland and Lowland Fields

Abstract

In agriculture, weeds are commonly viewed as nuisances that compete with main crops for resources like air, nutrients, light, and space, potentially reducing plant productivity. However, weeds also play a crucial role in ecosystems, contributing to soil fertility through organic matter decomposition, soil erosion prevention, acting as habitats for beneficial insects, and other benefits. Especially for human welfare, for new food and medicine sources. This is in line with the goals of SDGs 2 and 3. This study is concerned with the advantages of weeds in sugarcane fields.  Observation conducted in lowland and highland fields. Vegetation analysis using the quadrat method by a 1x1 meter quadrat. There are 3 replications for each sample. Identification of weeds for significant benefits if properly utilized from the literatures. 10 from 13 species in lowland are useful for medicine. They are Ageratum conyzoides, Portulaca oleracea, Digitaria ciliaris, Phyllanthus niruri Linn., Eleusine indica, Trianthema portulacastrum, and Crassocephalum crepidioides. Meanwhile, from the highland can be found Mimosa pudica L., Cyperus rotundus, Cayratia trifolia, and Montanoa hibiscifolia Benth. All of the 11 weeds in highland have potential for medicine. They are Mimosa pudica L., Amaranthus tricolor L., Ipomoea obscura, Guizotia abyssinica (L.f.) Cass., Chromolaena odorata, Eleusine indica, Cyperus rotundus, Cayratia trifolia, Modiola caroliniana, Digitaria sanguinalis, Montanoa hibiscifolia Benth. So, majority of weeds in lowland and highland fields are used as medicines. Other utilized as pesticides, soil conservation, biological agencies, livestock feed, fertilizer, ornamental plants, and food.