Flowering Months:
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Family:
Convolvulaceae (Bindweed)
Maximum Size:
3 metres tall
Habitats:
Fields, gardens, grassland, hedgerows, roadsides, seaside, wasteland.
Field Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) in the UK produces beautiful, trumpet-shaped flowers. The flowers typically have a pale pink or white hue and are approximately 1 to 2 centimetres in diameter. These blossoms bloom from late spring through to early autumn and often display a delicate, intricate structure with five fused petals, creating a charming and dainty appearance.
Fruit:
The fruit of the Field Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) in the UK is a small, rounded capsule that contains up to four seeds. These seeds are dark brown and kidney-shaped, measuring around 4-6 millimetres in length. The capsule, upon maturity, splits open, releasing the seeds which are smooth and somewhat flattened.
Leaves:
The leaves of Field Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) in the UK are arrowhead-shaped or broadly linear. They are relatively small, around 1 to 5 centimetres in length, and usually alternate along the stem. The leaves are typically a bright green colour, smooth-surfaced, and have pointed tips. They appear heart-shaped at the base and are positioned on slender stalks.
Aroma:
Field Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) in the UK doesn't typically possess a strong or distinctive fragrance. The plant's flowers generally have a very mild scent, often described as faint or subtle. Though some people may detect a delicate floral aroma, it's not known for having a prominent or easily discernible fragrance.
Other Names:
Chardvel, Creeping Jenny, Devil's Guts, European Bindweed, Lesser Bindweed, Morning Glory, Perennial Morning Glory, Small Bindweed, Small-flowered Morning Glory, White Convolvulus, Wild Morning Glory.
Summary
Convolvulus arvensis, also known as field bindweed or wild morning glory, is a perennial vine native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It is a member of the Convolvulaceae family and is closely related to plants such as morning glories and sweet potatoes. Field bindweed is characterized by its white or pink flowers and arrow-shaped leaves. It is a highly invasive plant that is often considered a weed in many parts of the world due to its ability to spread rapidly and outcompete native vegetation. Field bindweed is difficult to control due to its deep root system and can cause significant damage to crops and other plants. It is also toxic to livestock and can cause serious health issues if ingested.
Blog
Field Bindweed, also known as Convolvulus arvensis, is a common weed species that is widespread across the world. It is a climbing or creeping perennial plant that is native to Europe, Asia and North Africa. The weed is known for its ability to spread aggressively and establish itself in a wide range of habitats, including agricultural fields, pastures, gardens, and even along roadsides.
Impact on Agriculture
Field Bindweed is a major threat to agriculture as it has a deep taproot and a sprawling growth habit, making it difficult to control. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and produce numerous seeds that can remain viable in the soil for up to 30 years. This persistent weed can also grow through and smother crops, causing a reduction in yield.
Control Methods
Controlling Field Bindweed is a challenge as it can regrow from small fragments of root and seeds, making it difficult to eradicate completely. There are several methods for controlling Field Bindweed, including:
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Cultural control: This involves practices such as crop rotation and planting crops that compete with the weed.
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Chemical control: Herbicides can be applied to control Field Bindweed, but it's important to select the appropriate herbicide and follow the label instructions carefully.
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Physical control: Hand-pulling or digging up Field Bindweed can be effective, but care must be taken to remove all of the root and prevent regrowth from root fragments.
Prevention
Preventing Field Bindweed from establishing in the first place is the most effective way to manage the weed. This can be achieved by practicing good sanitation and removing all weeds before they have a chance to produce seeds. It's also important to avoid moving soil or plants that may contain Field Bindweed seeds.
Biological Control
Biological control involves using natural predators or pathogens to control Field Bindweed. For example, the root-mining weevil Lixus concavus and the stem-boring weevil Tychius lineatus have been used with some success in controlling Field Bindweed in Europe. The use of these and other biological control agents can be a sustainable and eco-friendly way to manage Field Bindweed, but care must be taken to ensure that non-target species are not affected.
Ecological Concerns
Field Bindweed is also of concern from an ecological perspective as it can alter native plant communities and reduce biodiversity. The weed can form dense stands that exclude other plants, altering the structure and composition of natural habitats. In addition, the plant produces a chemical allelochemic that can inhibit the growth of other plant species, further exacerbating its impact on native plant communities.
Invasive Potential
Field Bindweed is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world, including North America, where it was introduced as a decorative plant. The weed is highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of habitats, making it a difficult plant to control once established. In addition, its long-lived seeds and aggressive growth habit make it a major threat to native plant communities and agricultural land.
Resistance to Herbicides
Field Bindweed has developed resistance to several types of herbicides, making it even more challenging to control. Herbicide resistance is a growing problem for agriculture and is caused by the repeated use of the same herbicides over time. This leads to the evolution of resistant populations of weeds, which are not controlled by the herbicides that were previously effective. To reduce the risk of herbicide resistance, it's important to use a variety of control methods and rotate herbicides with different modes of action.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a sustainable and effective approach to controlling Field Bindweed and other weeds. IPM involves the use of a combination of control methods, including cultural, physical, chemical, and biological control, to manage pests in a way that is environmentally responsible and economically viable. IPM also involves monitoring pest populations and making decisions about the appropriate control methods based on current pest pressure and other factors.
Public Awareness and Education
Public awareness and education play a crucial role in controlling Field Bindweed and other invasive species. By educating the public about the impact of Field Bindweed and the importance of good sanitation practices, we can help to reduce the spread of this persistent weed. In addition, by promoting the use of integrated pest management practices and alternative control methods, we can help to reduce the environmental impact of weed control efforts.
In conclusion, Field Bindweed is a persistent and widespread weed that poses a major threat to agriculture and the environment. Effective control requires a multi-faceted approach that involves a combination of control methods, including cultural, chemical, physical, biological, and preventive measures. By working together, we can help to control Field Bindweed and preserve the health and productivity of our land.
Videos
Video 1: Field Bindweed filmed at Orford, Suffolk on the 29th June 2022.
Video 2: Field Bindweed filmed at Lytham St. Anne's in Lancashire on the 12th June 2023.
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