How can I get rid of bindweed in flower beds? - Ask Extension
I don't have grass in my yard; it is entirely flower beds and garden paths. In the last few years, bindweed has become an increasing problem. What is ...
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How can I get rid of bindweed in flower beds? #160121
Asked November 11, 2013, 11:00 AM EST
I don't have grass in my yard; it is entirely flower beds and garden paths. In the last few years, bindweed has become an increasing problem. What is the best way to get rid of it in the flower beds and paths?
Boulder County Colorado
Expert Response
Since bindweed is becoming an increasing problem, there is likely someplace around you that bindweed is out of control and is allowed to bloom.
Bindweed has an extensive root system and does not respond to pre-emergent herbicides, nor should you try to dig it up or pull it out.
The herbicides quinclorac (sold as Ortho Weed B Gon) or glyphosate (sold as Roundup) or dimethylamine (sold as Trimec) work well in controlling bindweed.
Since the bindweed is in your flower beds, you will need to be exceptionally careful with these products as they will also kill your flowers.
You may have to find the vines, and trace them back to the center. Cut them off at ground level, then place a container around it. I use the cut-off top of a water bottle [see attached photo]. Spray directly inside the top of the container, then let it sit so the bindweed absorbs the chemical. The container keeps the chemical contained, and keeps the spray drift from harming surrounding plants. Remove the container after an hour or so, and don't water this area for a couple of days.
With patience and diligence, you will be able to successfully combat bindweed in your flower beds. Try to eradicate it as soon as you see it.
http://www.colostate.edu/Dept/CoopExt/Adams/weed/bindweed_mgt.html
http://www.colostate.edu/Dept/CoopExt/Adams/weed/pdf/Field_bindweed.pdf
http://www.ext.colostate.edu/ptlk/2104.html
Bindweed has an extensive root system and does not respond to pre-emergent herbicides, nor should you try to dig it up or pull it out.
The herbicides quinclorac (sold as Ortho Weed B Gon) or glyphosate (sold as Roundup) or dimethylamine (sold as Trimec) work well in controlling bindweed.
Since the bindweed is in your flower beds, you will need to be exceptionally careful with these products as they will also kill your flowers.
You may have to find the vines, and trace them back to the center. Cut them off at ground level, then place a container around it. I use the cut-off top of a water bottle [see attached photo]. Spray directly inside the top of the container, then let it sit so the bindweed absorbs the chemical. The container keeps the chemical contained, and keeps the spray drift from harming surrounding plants. Remove the container after an hour or so, and don't water this area for a couple of days.
With patience and diligence, you will be able to successfully combat bindweed in your flower beds. Try to eradicate it as soon as you see it.
http://www.colostate.edu/Dept/CoopExt/Adams/weed/bindweed_mgt.html
http://www.colostate.edu/Dept/CoopExt/Adams/weed/pdf/Field_bindweed.pdf
http://www.ext.colostate.edu/ptlk/2104.html
