Overview
Convolvulus arvensis L., commonly known as field bindweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Eurasia, but widely distributed in temperate regions around the world. It belongs to the family Convolvulaceae and is closely related to morning glories.
Common Names
Field bindweed is known by several common names, including convolvulus, creeping jenny, morning glory, and perennial morning glory.
Appearance
The plant can grow up to 1.5 m long and has a deep, extensive root system that makes it difficult to control. The stems are slender, twining, and can grow up to 2 m in length. The leaves are alternate, arrowhead-shaped, and about 2-5 cm long and wide. The flowers are funnel-shaped, white or pink, and about 1-2 cm wide. They bloom from June to October and are followed by small, dry, brownish-black, four-seeded fruits.
Uses
Field bindweed has some medicinal uses, including as a poultice for wounds and as a tea for a variety of health issues. It contains several compounds that may be useful in medicine, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins. However, it is primarily considered a noxious weed, as it can quickly spread and choke out other plants in agricultural and natural areas. It is often difficult to control due to its extensive root system and ability to regrow from small root fragments left in the soil.
Overall, while possessing some beneficial properties, field bindweed is considered a highly invasive weed that can cause significant ecological and economic harm, and control measures are often warranted.
Growth Conditions of Convolvulus arvensis L.
Light: Convolvulus arvensis L. requires full sun and is not shade tolerant. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight to thrive.
Temperature: The plant is adaptable and can withstand a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in warm to hot weather. In general, it flourishes in temperatures ranging from 15 to 30°C (59 to 86°F). However, it can withstand temperatures as low as -38°C (-36°F) and as high as 47°C (116°F).
Soil: Convulvulus arvensis L. is not picky about soil conditions and can grow in a wide variety of soil types. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate moderately alkaline to acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. However, it does not do well in wet or poorly drained soils.
Water: The plant prefers moderate to low water availability, with soil that is not too dry or too wet. It can tolerate short periods of drought, but excessive or prolonged drought can weaken or kill the plant.
Nutrients: Convolvulus arvensis L. does not have high nutrient requirements. However, it can benefit from occasional fertilizer applications with balanced NPK (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium) ratios. Excessive nitrogen can promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers, while phosphorus and potassium enhance root growth and flowering.
Cultivation Methods
Convolvulus arvensis L. commonly known as field bindweed, is a hardy perennial plant that grows in a wide variety of soil types and conditions. It prefers sunny and well-drained areas but it can also grow in partial or full shade. It is relatively easy to cultivate and can be propagated by seeds or by cuttings.
Watering Needs
Field bindweed is relatively drought-tolerant, but regular watering is necessary, especially during dry spells. The rule of thumb for watering is to keep the soil moist but avoid waterlogging which can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Field bindweed is not a heavy feeder and does well in poor soils. However, a light fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can encourage healthy growth. Too much nitrogen can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Field bindweed can be pruned during the growing season to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Deadheading spent flowers can also encourage more blooms. However, pruning should be done carefully to avoid damaging the fragile stems and roots of the plant.
Propagation of Convolvulus arvensis L.
Convolvulus arvensis L., more commonly known as bindweed or morning glory, is a perennial weed that grows vigorously and can quickly become invasive. Propagation of this plant can occur both vegetatively and through seed production.
Vegetative Propagation:
Vegetative propagation of Convolvulus arvensis L. occurs through the plant's rhizomes, which are below-ground stems that produce roots and shoots. The rhizomes can grow up to 6 feet long and can spread horizontally underground, producing new shoots and roots along the way. Bindweed is known for its aggressive root system, which can make it difficult to control and eradicate.
Hand-pulling bindweed can actually promote vegetative propagation, as broken rhizome segments left in the soil can develop into new plants. For this reason, it's important to dig up the rhizomes as much as possible to prevent regrowth. Another means of controlling Convolvulus arvensis L. vegetatively is by using herbicides that selectively target the plant and its underground rhizomes.
Seed Propagation:
Convolvulus arvensis L. produces small, funnel-shaped flowers that range in color from white to pink. Flowering occurs from summer to fall, and the plant's seeds are contained in small, brown capsules that split open when mature. A single plant can produce up to 500 seeds, which are dispersed by wind, water, and animals.
Propagation by seed can be controlled by removing the flowers before seed production occurs. However, if seeds are allowed to mature, they can remain viable in the soil for up to 20 years. The seeds require light for germination, so they tend to sprout on the soil's surface or in shallow depths. Herbicides can also be effective at controlling Convolvulus arvensis L. through seed propagation, but they may also affect other non-target plant species.
Disease and Pest Management for Convolvulus arvensis L.
Convolvulus arvensis L., commonly known as field bindweed, is a flowering plant that is native to Europe and Asia. Due to its invasive nature, field bindweed often outcompetes other plants and can be a serious problem in agricultural fields, gardens, and lawns. Proper disease and pest management is crucial in controlling the spread of this plant.
Common Diseases
Field bindweed is susceptible to several plant diseases, including:
- Verticillium wilt: This fungal disease causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves, as well as stunted growth. To manage this disease, infected plants should be removed and destroyed, and the soil must be treated with fungicides.
- Root rot: Caused by several species of fungi, this disease causes the roots to rot and inhibits the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage of the soil.
- Leaf spot: This bacterial disease causes small, dark spots on the leaves. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and the remaining plants must be sprayed with a copper-based fungicide.
Common Pests
Field bindweed is also prone to attacks from several types of pests, including:
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects suck sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny arachnids feed on the undersides of the leaves, leaving them speckled and brown. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Leaf miners: The larvae of these insects tunnel through the leaves, causing them to appear translucent and silvery. To manage leaf miners, remove and destroy infected leaves and spray the remaining plant with insecticidal soap.
Overall, proper care and maintenance of Convolvulus arvensis L. is the best way to prevent disease and pest infestations. This includes regular watering, fertilization, pruning, and keeping the area weed-free. If disease or pest problems do arise, it is important to identify the issue quickly and take appropriate action to prevent the spread of the problem.
