Field Bindweed Control Strategies for Gardeners

Field bindweed is a persistent and invasive weed thats found in many gardens in the Treasure Valley. Field Bindweed can quickly take over gardens and landscapes. Its deep roots and rapid growth make it a formidable opponent for gardeners trying to maintain healthy plants and beautiful outdoor spaces. This article explores practical and effective bindweed control strategies to help you manage and reduce this troublesome weed in your garden.

Understanding Bindweed and Its Impact

Bindweed, often mistaken for morning glory due to its similar flowers, is a perennial weed known for its aggressive growth. It spreads through seeds and an extensive root system that can reach as much as six feet underground. This makes it quite difficult to eradicate once established.

Bindweed competes with garden plants for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Its twining vines can strangle young plants and reduce crop yields in vegetable gardens. Recognizing the signs of bindweed early is crucial for effective control.

Proven Bindweed Control Strategies

Controlling bindweed requires a combination of methods and persistence. Here are some of the most effective strategies gardeners can use:

1. Manual Removal

Prior to manually pulling bindweed, The Home & Garden Store recommends spraying this weed with Ferti-lome "Weed-Free Zone". Manual removal is one of the first steps in managing bindweed. It involves pulling out the vines and digging up the roots. Since bindweed roots can grow deep, it is important to remove as much of the root system as possible to slow or prevent regrowth.

• Use a garden fork or spade to loosen the soil around the roots.

• Pull the vines gently to avoid breaking them, as broken pieces can regrow.

• Dispose of the removed bindweed properly to prevent spreading.

  
  

2. Mulching

Applying a thick layer of mulch can help suppress bindweed growth by blocking sunlight. Organic mulches like bark chips, wood chips, bark mulch, or grass clippings work well.

• Spread mulch at least 3-4 inches deep around plants.

• Replenish mulch regularly to maintain coverage.

• Mulching can also improve soil health and moisture retention, however we recommend avoiding wood products as they require nitrogen to help break down this amendment.

  
  

3. Smothering with Cover Crops or Black Plastic

Cover crops such as clover or alfalfa can outcompete bindweed by shading the soil. Alternatively, black plastic sheeting can be used to smother the weed. Black plastic typically last about 2 years in our area of the country.

• Lay black plastic over affected areas for several months.

• Secure edges to prevent light from reaching the soil.

• This method starves bindweed roots by blocking photosynthesis, an element (sunlight) necessary for all living plants found in the garden.

  
  

4. Chemical Control

Herbicides can be effective but should be used carefully to avoid damaging desirable plants. Selective herbicides such as Ferti-lome Weed-Free Zone which targets broadleaf weeds are preferred. Herbicides kill many types of weeds including but not limited to your herbs and vegetable, annuals, perennials, and more. If you have a question about what to use hebicides on, contact us at The Home & Garden Store for help.

• Apply herbicides during active growth periods for best results.

• Follow label instructions for safe and effective use.

• Consider spot treatments to minimize environmental impact.

  
  

For gardeners seeking more information on field bindweed control, visit us at The Home & Garden Store in Boise.

Black plastic mulch smothering weeds in garden bed

Does Vinegar Kill Bindweed?

Vinegar is a popular natural remedy for weed control, but its effectiveness on bindweed as well as many other weeds is limited. Household vinegar contains acetic acid, which can burn the leaves of many weeds, including bindweed. However, it does not penetrate deep enough to kill the extensive root system of bindweed.

• Vinegar may provide temporary control by damaging above-ground growth.

• Repeated applications are necessary, as bindweed often regrows from roots.

• Stronger horticultural vinegar products with higher acetic acid concentrations can be more effective but require careful handling.

  
  

For long-term bindweed control, vinegar should be combined with other methods such as manual removal or mulching.

Applying vinegar spray to weeds in garden

Preventing Bindweed Reinfestation

Prevention is key to maintaining a bindweed-free garden. Once you have reduced the existing population, take steps to prevent reinfestation:

• Inspect new plants and soil for bindweed seeds or roots before planting.

• Maintain a healthy garden soil and use plants that can outcompete weeds.

• Regularly monitor your garden and remove any new bindweed growth promptly.

• Avoid disturbing soil unnecessarily, as this can bring bindweed seeds to the surface.

• Applying an application of Ferti-lome "Broadleaf Weed Control with Gallery" can help in reducing or eliminating bindweed. We recommend applying three time a year, once in late February, again in mid-may and once again in mid-August.

  
  

Integrating Bindweed Control into Your Garden Routine

Successful bindweed control requires ongoing effort and a combination of strategies. Here are some tips to integrate control measures into your gardening routine:

• Schedule regular garden inspections to catch bindweed early.

• Combine manual removal with mulching for best results.

• Use herbicides from Ferti-lome, Hi-Yield and Natural Guard to obtain best results. Always follow safety guidelines as found on the label of the product you are using.

• Educate yourself on the biology of bindweed to anticipate its growth patterns.

  
  

By staying vigilant and proactive, you can protect your garden from the damaging effects of bindweed and enjoy a healthier, more vibrant outdoor space. By applying these bindweed control strategies, gardeners can effectively manage this invasive weed and maintain the beauty and productivity of their gardens. Persistence and a multi-faceted approach are essential to winning the battle against bindweed.

The Home & Garden Store manager has been working in the landscape and garden center business for over 50 years. We can provide you with the knowledge to help you with all your gardening needs.

Charlie H.

General Manager - The Home & Garden Store

Boise, Idaho