Field Bindweed

convolvulus arvensis

Also known as: ["Creeping Jenny","Small Bindweed","Corn Bindweed"]

Family: Convolvulaceae Genus: Convolvulus Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A persistent, creeping vine with white or pink trumpet-shaped flowers, known for its invasive nature in agricultural and garden settings.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Solanales
Family: Convolvulaceae
Genus: Convolvulus
Botanical Name: Convolvulus arvensis

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: open garden beds, tolerant of poor soils
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very high
  • Toughness Level: very high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months during active growth.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with tolerance to partial shade. Adjust exposure in extreme heat to prevent scorching.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; monitor for signs of sunburn.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

Easy

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plants for even light; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct midday sun in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds in poorly drained areas; mulch to retain moisture.

Temperature

Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none required in winter

Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for slow release.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings.
  2. Apply hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain moisture.
  5. Transplant once rooted.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or overgrown stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growth period begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in fresh soil with good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container to prevent congestion.

Checklist

Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and reduce fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts below 50°F (10°C); prolonged cold can cause root damage or dieback.

Solution: Move to a sheltered location; use frost cloth in cold snaps; ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering in temperatures above 90°F (32°C).

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Convolvulus arvensis may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, water stress, or pest infestations, affecting overall plant health and photosynthetic capacity.

Wilting in Convolvulus arvensis is often due to water stress, either from drought or overwatering, which can impair nutrient uptake and lead to reduced growth or plant death if prolonged.

Leaf spots on Convolvulus arvensis are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic area, premature leaf drop, and potential spread to other parts of the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Convolvulus arvensis is commonly caused by fungal pathogens in waterlogged soils, leading to decay of plant tissues, loss of structural integrity, and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are susceptible to mild toxicity from Convolvulus arvensis, particularly if they consume the roots or seeds. The alkaloids can cause gastrointestinal irritation and other mild systemic effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Convolvulus arvensis can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of alkaloids. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion should be monitored, especially in small or sensitive breeds.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Convolvulus arvensis, commonly known as field bindweed, contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects when ingested in significant quantities. The roots and seeds are the most concentrated sources of these compounds.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any part of the plant. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I control Field Bindweed?

A: Control is challenging; methods include deep cultivation, herbicides, or persistent manual removal of roots.

Q: Is Field Bindweed toxic to pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested in large quantities.

Q: Why is Field Bindweed considered a weed?

A: It spreads aggressively via roots and seeds, choking out desirable plants and competing for resources.

Quick Reference
Family: Convolvulaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers"]
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