How can I kill bind weed in the garden and lawn?

Hi Dan,

Bind weed is one of those invasive types of weeds that drives us all crazy. That's because no matter how much you dig it up, there are always tiny pieces of root left that will regrow. The best way to get rid of that kind of plant is a chemical weed killer that will reach the roots. If you prefer not to use chemicals, the next best way is to cut the at ground level then watch and cut more each time you see it growing. Eventually that will use all of it's energy and it will die. You must be persistent for this to work.

Here's the information about using a chemical. Wishing you the best.

http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7462.html

Hi Dan! I’m a chemist, and although I love natural alternatives, this is one of those instances you will need to use a chemically formulated weed killer. You can check with your local extension agent on brands they recommend for this which will be effective at killing the roots

Getting rid of bindweed is a 2-3 year project. Bindweed forms an underground network or mat of roots and then sends up shoots. To eradicate it, you must use chemicals. Additionally, never cut it off at the ground level. This will cause several more shoots to come up and/or thicken the size of the cut shoot. Let the shoots grow until they have 5-10 leaves on them and then spray the leaves. You want enough leaves present to absorb the chemical, which will kill both the shoot and a small section of roots underground.

I use Spectracide weed and grass killer on open areas, since this product will kill everything. I also use a special chemical on my Buffalo grass lawn that will not kill the lawn. In gardens, I use a plastic juice bottle with the top and bottom cut off. I then pull up the bindweed into the bottle and spray ( wear gloves! ). This protects the other plants around it.

FYI: I am on year two getting rid of mine. Lawn is down from 50-60 shoots last fall to a few here and there. I spray approx every 2-3 weeks, now.

NOTE: Plants should not be drought stressed, since this will reduce uptake of the chemical. So, you should make sure they are well watered the day before you spray.

Good luck with whatever direction you go. Remember, you're in for the long haul on this one...

Here's a drawing that will give you an idea of what you're dealing with. It's not many plants, so much as one plant.

A tip for any Gardiner. If given a plant from someone else’s garden check the roots carefully, maybe even wash them under a garden tap, to make sure you aren’t inheriting bind weed roots that look like spaghetti. If they do get into your garden they are a menace!! Believe me.