Tackling bindweed: a guide for control and eradication
In the ongoing battle against unwanted weeds, bindweed has proven to be a persistent foe. However, there are several effective non-chemical methods available for controlling this problematic weed.
One such method is physical removal. Manual removal, though time-consuming, is a chemical-free approach. Regularly pulling or digging up bindweed roots can prevent regrowth. This method requires consistency to fully eradicate the weed[5].
Another technique is mulching or smothering. By covering the bindweed with organic materials or using sheet mulching (tarps, cardboard, or plastic sheeting), sunlight and regrowth are blocked, suffocating the weed. This method takes several months but is effective for long-term control[2].
A more unconventional method is boiling water. Pouring boiling water directly onto the bindweed can scald and kill it. It's crucial to be cautious not to splash nearby plants[1].
A natural weed killer can also be made using white vinegar, salt, and dish soap. Spraying this mixture on the weeds can kill them. However, repeated applications may be necessary[3].
Companion planting is another strategy. Planting flowers or herbs that naturally repel or compete with bindweed can help control its spread[4].
Glyphosate, a common chemical control, comes in several formulations, including ready-to-use spray and concentrate. However, it's important to note that glyphosate has been banned for municipal use by many UK councils and is thought to be linked to various human cancers[6].
When controlling bindweed growing among garden plants, digging out the roots is the most effective method, especially during winter to early spring[7]. In beds and borders, this method is essential due to bindweed's tendency to grow through the roots of other plants.
Field bindweed, Convulvulus arvensis, bears smaller pink or white trumpet flowers and is smaller and less vigorous overall, although still perennial and problematic, especially on bare soil[8].
Other types of weedkiller will only kill the top growth of bindweed, and it will regrow from the roots. Bindweed is a perennial weed that can become a persistent problem in gardens[9].
It's essential to avoid putting bindweed roots in a compost bin as they will survive and can be spread around the garden when you use the compost[10]. If you can wait 12-18 months before planting, covering the soil with something that excludes all light is the easiest way to kill all perennial weeds, including bindweed[11].
In conclusion, these methods offer effective alternatives to chemical control and can be used individually or in combination for better results. By adopting these methods, gardeners can successfully manage bindweed infestations without resorting to harmful chemicals.
In the realm of maintaining a lifestyle focused on eco-friendly gardening, the implementation of non-chemical methods for weed control is a valuable approach. Particularly in home-and-garden settings, employing techniques such as physical removal, mulching, or boiling water can prove beneficial in controlling bindweed, enhancing the health of one's home garden.
