Morning glory, also known as field bindweed, is indeed an invasive plant that can cause problems in gardens and landscapes. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have encountered this aggressive perennial plant numerous times and have seen firsthand the challenges it can present.
One of the reasons morning glory is considered invasive is its ability to spread rapidly. It has a vigorous growth habit and can quickly take over an area if not controlled. The plant starts by growing along the ground, sending out long, twining stems that search for structures to climb on. This can include other plants, fences, trellises, or any nearby structures. Once it finds something to climb on, it can grow upwards, reaching heights of several feet.
The ability of morning glory to climb and twine around other plants is a major concern. It competes with and shades out other plants, depriving them of sunlight, nutrients, and water. This can weaken or even kill the plants it climbs on, leading to a loss of biodiversity in the area. Additionally, the twining vines can tangle and choke other plants, making it difficult to remove morning glory once it becomes established.
Another reason morning glory is considered invasive is its ability to reproduce and spread. It produces large numbers of seeds that can remain viable in the soil for many years. These seeds can be dispersed by wind, water, animals, or even human activity. Once the seeds germinate, the plants can quickly establish themselves and begin to spread, creating a dense mat of vegetation.
In my own gardening experiences, I have found morning glory to be particularly challenging to control. Its extensive root system can make it difficult to completely eradicate, as even small pieces of root left in the soil can regrow into new plants. I have often had to resort to a combination of manual removal, such as pulling or digging up the plants, and chemical control methods to effectively manage morning glory infestations.
It is important to note that morning glory is not without its merits. Some gardeners intentionally plant certain varieties of morning glory for their beautiful flowers. However, these cultivated varieties are typically non-invasive and do not pose the same risks as field bindweed. It is crucial to differentiate between the desirable garden cultivars and the invasive field bindweed when considering the use of morning glory in a landscape.
To summarize, morning glory, specifically field bindweed, is indeed an invasive plant that can cause significant problems in gardens and landscapes. Its aggressive growth habit, ability to climb and smother other plants, and rapid reproduction make it a challenging weed to control. Gardeners and landscapers need to be vigilant in managing and preventing the spread of morning glory to maintain the health and diversity of their outdoor spaces.
