Sasha CampbellBindweed is a tenacious plant that can quickly take over gardens and lawns. Its deep roots and rapid growth make it a challenging weed to control.
Fortunately, a few natural methods can help manage bindweed without resorting to harmful chemicals.
Identification
Two common types of this weed are field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) and hedge bindweed (Calystegia sepium).
Field bindweed has smaller leaves shaped like arrowheads and white or pink flowers. Hedge bindweed has larger leaves and white trumpet-shaped flowers. Both types can spread quickly and are challenging to eradicate once they establish themselves in your garden.
Bindweed is a problem because it grows rapidly and spreads aggressively [1]. It wraps around other plants, suffocating them and blocking sunlight.
It also has deep roots that make it difficult to remove altogether. If left unchecked, bindweed can take over gardens and lawns.
How to Get Rid of Bindweed Naturally
Below are some home remedies and natural control methods for dealing with bindweed. Using these natural methods and staying consistent can reduce bindweed infestations over time.
1. African Marigolds
Studies have shown that African marigolds can kill ground ivy and bindweed. However, they must be planted early, in large quantities, and allowed to reach five feet tall [2].
2. Helpful Insects and Creatures
Certain insects feed on field bindweed, often called “morning glory,” and can help reduce its population.
The caterpillars of the field bindweed moth (Tyta luctuosa) feed on the plant. The bindweed gall mite (Aceria malherbae) can also help in this way [3, 4].
3. Frequent Cutting
Regularly cutting back bindweed can weaken it over time. Use garden shears to cut the stems close to the ground.
This method prevents the plant from getting sunlight and reduces its energy reserves. This method is effective in lawns and open areas.
Repeat this process whenever you see new growth.
4. Cover the Area with Black Plastic
Covering the infested area with black plastic is an effective way to smother bindweed.
Lay down a sheet of black plastic over the bindweed and secure the edges properly. The plastic blocks sunlight, preventing the bindweed from photosynthesizing.
5. Solarization
Cover the affected area with clear plastic sheeting for 4 to 8 weeks during the hottest part of the year. The intense heat will kill the bindweed and its seeds.
Leave the plastic on the site for 3 to 5 years for effective control or to kill bindweed permanently [4].
6. Cardboard and Mulch
Another method of smothering bindweed is to use cardboard and mulch. Place a thick layer of cardboard over the bindweed.
Next, cover the cardboard with a thick layer of mulch, such as wood chips or straw. Doing so will block sunlight and suppress bindweed.
7. Dig Out the Roots
Use a garden fork or spade to loosen the soil around the plant. Next, carefully pull out the entire root system.
Be thorough, as even small root fragments can regrow into new plants.
8. Boiling Water
One simple method to kill bindweed is to boil water and pour it directly onto it.
The heat will scald the leaves and roots, eventually killing the plant. This method is adequate for small infestations and areas where other plants won’t be harmed.
9. Vinegar
Vinegar can also be used as a natural herbicide to kill bindweed leaves. However, it may not kill the roots.
You can use it to make homemade bindweed spray. Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and spray it directly onto the bindweed leaves.
The vinegar’s acetic acid burns the leaves, causing them to die. For a more potent effect, use horticultural vinegar, which has a higher concentration of acetic acid.
You can also mix one part baking soda with two parts vinegar and use it as a DIY weed killer. After the leaves wilt, you can dig out the plant’s roots.
10. Weed by Hand
Though time-consuming, you can also pull up the bindweed by hand. However, remove as much of the root system as possible.
It’s best to do this when the soil is moist, as the roots will be easier to pull out.
11. Avenger® Weed Killer
Avenger® Weed Killer is an organic herbicide made from citrus oil. It works by stripping away the plant’s waxy cuticle, causing it to dehydrate and die.
Spray Avenger® Weed Killer directly onto the bindweed leaves on a sunny day for the best results.
12. AXXE® Broad Spectrum Herbicide
This product is another organic option. It’s a soap-type herbicide.
It breaks down the plant’s cell walls, causing it to dry out and die. Spray AXXE® Broad Spectrum Herbicide directly onto the bindweed leaves, covering them thoroughly.
Takeaway
While bindweed is a persistent and challenging weed to control, natural remedies can help manage and eventually eradicate it from your garden and yard. Consistency is key; regular monitoring and treatment will yield the best results.
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