Saturday, 01 August 2009 03:51

Field Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) is a member of the Morning-glory family.  This creeping perennial was introduced from Europe.  It reproduces by seed and horizontal roots.  The stems are 1 to 4 feet long and spread thickly over the ground or wind around erect plants or other objects.  The flowers are bell- or trumpet-shaped, white or pink.  Field bindweed is one of the most competitive perennial weeds and is a problem throughout Colorado. Its roots can extend 10 feet deep and a two- or three-year food supply is stored in the extensive underground root system.  This makes it hard to kill by cultivation because roots will continue to live as long as this food reserve lasts.  Seeds can also stay viable in the soil for up to 40 years.  Field Bindweed is widespread in cultivated areas, pastures, lawns, gardens, roadsides, and waste areas throughout Pitkin County. As soon as bindweed is established in a new area, an infestation can spread locally by roots and rhizomes. After the first growing season, the roots of a single plant may cover an area 9 feet in diameter and produce up to 25 offshoot plants.

For additional information, contact Pitkin County Land Management at 920-5214 or the City of Aspen Parks Department at 429-2026.

< Prev		Next >