Controlling Invasive Morning Glory Vines from Contaminated Mulch

The small white, petunia-like flowers and aggressive vining habit confirm field bindweed (wild morning glory), Convolvulus arvensis. It's a perennial with deep, extensive roots—hand-weeding alone won't eradicate it.

Integrated approach:

1. Glyphosate (Roundup): Apply to actively growing foliage per label. Use a shield (cardboard) to protect desirable plants. It translocates to roots. Re-treat as new shoots emerge.
2. Vegetable beds: Do NOT spray glyphosate near edibles. Instead, pour boiling water on bindweed foliage (avoid crop roots), or hand-pull entire root systems persistently.
3. Mulch + barrier: Use thick cardboard/newspaper under 3–4 inches of wood chips. Bindweed will still penetrate seams—monitor and spot-treat.
4. Prevention: Solarize soil (clear plastic, 4–6 weeks in summer) before planting. Use clean, certified weed-free mulch.

Persistence over 2–3 seasons is key. Bindweed seeds remain viable 20+ years.