Field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis)

Also known as: Possession vine, Cornbind

Field bindweed (*Convolvulus arvensis*), originally from Eurasia and related to morning glory, is notorious for being an invasive species in non-native regions. It competes aggressively with other plants for sunlight and moisture. Eradicating this plant is particularly challenging due to its deep, extensive root system, which can regenerate even if the plant is cut down. Additionally, its seeds can stay viable in the soil for many years, making it a persistent problem.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Field bindweed

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual

Plant Type

Vine, Herb

Plant Height

50 cm to 2 m

Spread

90 cm to 1.8 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1 cm to 2.5 cm

Flower Color

White Pink

Images of Field bindweed

Quickly Identify Field bindweed

Arrow-shaped leaves up to 2 inches (5 cm) long.

Trumpet-shaped white to pale pink flowers, 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide.

Vines capable of reaching 6-7 feet (1.8-2.1 meters) in length.

Funnel-shaped flowers with radial symmetry and green bracts.

Small round seed capsules with 2 seeds, lasting up to 20 years in soil.

Scientific Classification of Field bindweed

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Solanales

Family

Morning-glory

Genus

Bindweed

Species

Field bindweed

Planting and Growing of Field bindweed

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Field bindweed?

Convolvulus arvensis does not require large amounts of water. Use about 200 ml each time you water to keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged. It's important to water until you see a small amount draining from the bottom of the pot, indicating that the entire root system is being hydrated.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Field bindweed? ›

What should I do if my Field bindweed is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Field bindweed? ›

How to save an overwatered Field bindweed? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Field bindweed?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

Convolvulus arvensis thrives ideally under full to partial sun, necessitating about 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day. Providing this range ensures robust growth and abundant flowering, enhancing its aesthetic and health.

What Is the Ideal Light for Convolvulus arvensis? ›

How Can You Ensure Ideal Light Conditions? ›

What Are the Benefits of Ideal Lighting? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Field bindweed?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 77℉

Convolvulus arvensis thrives best when temperatures range between 68°F and 77°F. This range provides optimal conditions for growth and development, ensuring the plant can perform photosynthesis efficiently and maintain its energy for new growth. Fluctuations beyond this range may result in stress, impacting plant health and productivity.

What Soil is Best for Field bindweed?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Clay soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Convolvulus arvensis thrives in well-drained soil that prevents root rot and fosters healthy growth. Ensuring good drainage will help this plant flourish, allowing roots to access both air and water efficiently. Utilizing a nutrient-rich substrate allows Convolvulus arvensis to achieve its full growth potential. The presence of essential nutrients promotes robust blooming and enhances the plant's resilience against pests and diseases. Moderate moisture retention in the soil is crucial for Convolvulus arvensis as it prefers neither soggy nor completely dry conditions. This balance helps maintain the plant’s vigor and ensures a steady supply of water without waterlogging.

How to Fertilize Field bindweed?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Convolvulus arvensis, or field bindweed, generally thrives with minimal fertilization, demonstrating a robust growth pattern even on nutrient-poor soils. However, if cultivated for specific purposes, a modest application is recommended. For liquid fertilizers, dilute to half strength and apply only 10-20 grams per application to avoid over-fertilization.

How to Prune Field bindweed?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Begin by identifying the long, spreading vines of Convolvulus arvensis. Use a pair of sharp pruning shears to cut the vine sections that are sprawling out of their designated area. Focus on trimming the shoots back to about 1 inch above a leaf node, to encourage healthy regrowth. Ensure you remove any dead or diseased stems to promote an overall robust plant.

How to Propagate Field bindweed plant?

Propagate Time: Late spring, Early summer

Fill a seed tray with well-draining potting mix and scatter Convolvulus arvensis seeds evenly. Lightly cover them with soil, water gently, and place the tray in a location that receives indirect sunlight.

Identify healthy roots on the parent plant and use a sharp knife to cut segments about 7 to 10 cm long. Dust them with rooting hormone and plant in a sand or perlite mix.

Once seedlings have grown a couple of sets of true leaves, they should be hardened off. Gradually acclimatize them to outdoor conditions before planting them in a suitable garden bed.

How to Repot Field bindweed plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repot Convolvulus arvensis when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes, or the plant appears stunted despite adequate watering and fertilization. Spring and early summer, when the plant is coming out of dormancy and actively growing, are the best times for repotting. This ensures the plant has enough time to recover and establish itself in the new pot before the colder months.

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one, ensuring it has adequate drainage holes. The material can be terracotta or plastic, albeit terracotta is preferred for its breathability, which prevents overwatering – a common pitfall. A larger pot allows room for root expansion, enhancing nutrient uptake and promoting robust growth.

Choose a well-draining potting mix, ideally one that includes a combination of peat, perlite, and pine bark. This composition ensures good aeration and prevents soil compaction, facilitating healthier root development. The blend also allows for better moisture retention while preventing root rot that occurs with waterlogged soil.

Toxicity of Field bindweed

Is Field bindweed toxic to cat?

Field bindweed represents a significant risk to the health of felines, as all components of the plant contain harmful toxins. Cats might unknowingly consume parts of field bindweed, resulting in various signs of physical discomfort. Given the risk of toxicity, it is essential for cat guardians to observe their pets diligently, especially in environments where field bindweed is present. Should there be any suspicion of ingestion, it is vital to obtain prompt veterinary assistance to safeguard the cat's health and well-being.

Is Field bindweed toxic to dog?

Field bindweed is regarded as a toxic plant for dogs. Canines may inadvertently consume various parts of this plant, which could result in potential poisoning. The whole plant, encompassing leaves, stems, flowers, and roots, poses a danger if ingested. Dogs that have eaten field bindweed may display symptoms such as gastrointestinal disturbances, vomiting, diarrhea, or more severe reactions depending on the quantity consumed. It is crucial for dog owners to vigilantly supervise their pets and restrict their access to regions where field bindweed is present. If a dog is believed to have ingested any segment of field bindweed, prompt veterinary intervention is essential to guarantee appropriate treatment and care.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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