Low level summons

[Azhur]

By low level I mean all those level 1-3, less than 5 gems costing conjuration spells (vinemen and such). The point is that I can't really make any use of them, since I just don't want to waste my researchers for such futility. When I have to choose between two relatively weak vinemen and 4-10 RPs, I will gladly choose the precious research points. Opinions about this issue, anyone?

[Boron]

The vine ogres are good as well as the manikins and all blood 1-3 summons as well .

Only the vine ogre are from conjuration path . So imo you are right .
I would even say that all the summoned units from conjuration are rather crappy . The commanders there are way better .
But for units always go blood if you can . If you don't have blood take a look into enchantment and construction , living statues , mechanical men + mandragoras are all quite good .

From a cost viewpoint though devils + storm demons are probably not too beat .

[Schmoe]

Azhur said:
By low level I mean all those level 1-3, less than 5 gems costing conjuration spells (vinemen and such). The point is that I can't really make any use of them, since I just don't want to waste my researchers for such futility. When I have to choose between two relatively weak vinemen and 4-10 RPs, I will gladly choose the precious research points. Opinions about this issue, anyone?

I heartily disagree. If I'm playing a Nature empire (anything with a starting Nature gem income), I almost always set a cheap nature caster early on to summon vinemen monthly. Equipped with an ivy crown, it provides a steady stream of unbreakable, upkeep-free, need-not-eat fodder that can be extremely useful.