How to Get Rid of Field Bindweed

Field bindweed is one of the toughest weeds to control in North Texas lawns. With its creeping vines, deep root system, and fast-growing nature, it will quickly take over turfgrass, flower beds, and even garden spaces. Learning how to get rid of field bindweed requires a mix of persistence and the right lawn care strategies.

What is Field Bindweed?

Field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) is a perennial broadleaf weed that looks deceptively harmless at first. It produces small white or pink flowers that resemble morning glories, but unlike its ornamental cousin, this plant is highly invasive. Its roots can grow as deep as 20 feet underground, making it extremely difficult to eradicate completely.

Why It’s Hard to Control

The biggest challenge with bindweed is its ability to regenerate from root fragments. Even if you pull it by hand, small pieces of root left behind can sprout new plants. Over time, this weed spreads aggressively across lawns and landscapes.

Methods to Get Rid of Field Bindweed

1. Manual Removal (with Caution)

Hand-pulling can help reduce surface growth, but it won’t eliminate bindweed completely. If you choose this method, make sure to dig deep and remove as much of the root as possible. Repeated removal over time can weaken the plant.

2. Smothering

Covering bindweed-infested areas with heavy mulch, landscape fabric, or even black plastic can help block sunlight and suppress growth. While this method takes time, it’s effective in garden beds or non-turf areas.

3. Selective Herbicides

Applying a post-emergent herbicide designed for broadleaf weeds can help manage field bindweed. Be sure to use a selective formula that won’t harm your grass. For comparison, if you’re dealing with another persistent broadleaf, you may want to read more about how to get rid of chickweed.

4. Persistence Over Time

Unfortunately, there’s no quick fix. Field bindweed control requires consistent effort—pulling, treating, and monitoring your lawn regularly. Over time, you can significantly reduce its presence and prevent it from spreading.

Preventing Bindweed in Your Lawn

The best defense against bindweed is a healthy, thick lawn. Proper mowing, watering, and fertilization strengthen turfgrass, making it harder for weeds to establish. Overseeding bare spots and applying mulch in flower beds can also limit its spread.

Get Professional Help

Because field bindweed is so stubborn, many homeowners turn to professionals for long-term solutions. At Ryno Lawn Care, we provide customized weed control and lawn maintenance plans to keep your grass strong, healthy, and weed-free.

👉 Ready to reclaim your yard? Check out our full-service lawn care programs to get started today!

FAQ About Field Bindweed

What is the best thing to kill bindweed with?
Systemic herbicides containing glyphosate (like Roundup) or 2,4-D are often considered the most effective. These chemicals are absorbed by the leaves and travel to the roots, which is crucial for killing this persistent perennial weed.

Will vinegar kill field bindweed?
Household vinegar may burn the top growth of field bindweed, but it will not kill the deep, extensive root system. The plant will quickly resprout, making vinegar an ineffective long-term solution for eradication.

How to eradicate morning glory vines?
Persistent eradication requires a multi-pronged approach: consistently pulling or digging out every piece of the root system, smothering it with heavy mulch or cardboard, and/or carefully using a systemic herbicide applied to the leaves to target the roots.

Should I remove field bindweed?
Yes, you should remove it. Field bindweed is a highly invasive vine that aggressively smothers garden plants, crops, and ornamental flowers by blocking their sunlight and competing fiercely for water and soil nutrients.