Weed science is a diverse field that relies upon many fundamental disciplines to generate theories and empirical information about weedy plants. This information is used to develop and improve technology designed to manage weeds. Weed management includes three components— prevention, eradication, and control of weeds or undesirable plants—as well as protecting crops or fostering beneficial vegetation. The tools of weed control include biological, chemical, cultural, and mechanical tools as well as integrated weed management, which is the integration of effective and environmentally safe weed control methods within the context of a managed ecosystem. Invasive species may be viewed as a subset of the larger category of plants we call weeds; as such, the knowledge, concepts, and tools of weed management are highly applicable to the understanding and management of invasive plant species.

Additional index words: Integrated weed management, invasive species, vegetation management, weed control.

Abbreviations: IPM, integrated pest management; IWM, integrated weed management.