The bindweed develops funnel-shaped flowers with delicate hues. Actually, she is a real beauty if it weren't for the uncontrollable urge to spread. It can quickly drive the gardener to despair, because the root system proves to be stubborn.
As beautiful as it looks, the field bindweed is unpopular with most garden owners
Why bindweed is spreading so rapidly
Although the morning glory produces pretty flowers, it's not a popular choice in gardens. It grows up on useful and ornamental plants and restricts their vitality. The plants quickly take up large areas due to their high urge to spread.
growth
This species belongs to the rhizome geophytes, which reproduce vegetatively by root shoots and runners. Even the smallest root remains can sprout. The root system penetrates up to two meters deep soil layers, which makes control difficult. The climbing plant is adapted to dry locations, because with its strong and deep roots it can optimally supply the leaf mass with water. The high suction power is essential for the survival of the plant. If you cut off the above-ground parts of the plant, they will wither within a short time.
containment strategies
Once bindweed has established itself in the garden, it is often difficult to combat it completely. Years can pass before weeds are completely banned. Patience and perseverance are of great importance if you want to get this problem under control. It is important that you starve the plant and continuously remove root networks.
Eliminate shoots
Begin the control measures in early spring. The further the growing season progresses, the easier it is for the young plants to establish themselves. Regularly remove seedlings from the soil before they are in the fourth leaf instar. Up to this point, the roots are sensitive to above-ground cutting and the chances of success are comparatively high.
Method:
- check every two to three weeks
- Pluck out newly sprouting shoots directly
- Carry out the measure for at least one year
expose roots
When the harvest is over, dig up the bed thoroughly. Work the seedbed with a plow or cultivator to a depth of 30 centimetres. Even if the root system usually reaches deeper, the exposed roots dry out in the air. You can then pull them out of the ground and dispose of them. Nevertheless, in the event of a strong spread, it makes sense to work the soil as deeply as possible.
cover floor
In extreme cases, you should cover the garden floor with black foil. This way the bindweed gets no light and slowly dies. Cut cross-shaped slits in the fleece so that vegetables and ornamental plants can continue to grow in the bed. To improve the look, we recommend covering the separating layer with bark mulch, sand or earth. Leave the weed fleece (€21.70) on the area for one to two years to achieve the greatest possible control success.
tips
Black plastic mulch is an ideal alternative for small areas or the greenhouse.