
When Bindweed flowers in UK and how to kill and remove it
Bindweed is one of the common plants that can flower and cause problems in your garden.
While it may look pretty, it has been described by experts as "rampant" and can "quickly smother other plants in your garden".
Here is all to know about Bindweed, including what it looks like, when it flowers in the UK, if it is poisonous and how to remove it.
Bindweed is a UK native wildflower, and while it can be beneficial to wildlife, its spreading roots and twining stems can cause issues in gardens.
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) highlights two types of common Bindweed, namely Hedge bindweed and Field Bindweed.
Hedge Bindweed has heart-shaped leaves and funnel-shaped flowers.
These are "usually white but can also be pale pink with a white centre and five white stripes".
"After flowering, rounded capsules form, each containing up to four oval-shaped brown seeds," the RHS adds.
Hedge Bindweed has heart-shaped leaves and funnel-shaped flowers (Image: Getty Images) Field Bindweed is described as "smaller and less vigorous", and has oval to arrow-shaped, grey-green leaves, with funnel-shaped flowers that are often pale pink, but can also be pink with a white centre and stripes, or plain white.
Wildlife Trusts notes that Bindweed typically flowers between June and September.
Despite Bindweed stems typically dying back in autumn, the root system remains and will be "ready to produce new shoots in spring".
Nick Wood is a horticulture expert at online garden centre Gardening Express.
He has issued a warning to Brits as we come into the seasons when Bindweed typically flowers.
Arvensis: refers to plants typically found in, or associated with, fields or cultivated areas.
From the Latin 'arvum' meaning field.
Field Bindweed, Convolvulus arvensis. Leaves to 5cm, alternate with basal lobes. Flowers trumpet-shaped, white or pink and white, 1-3cm across. pic.twitter.com/h3cfbl6ROT
He said: "Bindweed might look pretty with its delicate flowers and heart-shaped leaves, but don't be fooled - it's a rampant twining vine that can quickly smother other plants in your garden.
"Hedge bindweed is the real culprit here, with its fast-growing, climbing stems that can wrap around and strangle anything in their path.
"Field bindweed is less aggressive, but it's still a persistent problem, especially in open soil where it can spread rapidly.
"While it's a native wildflower, its aggressive growth and spreading roots can quickly take over gardens and other natural areas, which is why it's incredibly invasive in the UK.
Mr Wood added that while there is "no specific law directly addressing bindweed in the UK", Brits "all have a legal duty to manage invasive plants to prevent them from spreading and causing harm to neighbouring properties".
The RHS adds that while you do not need to remove Bindweed from your garden, it can spread to other plants, so controlling it is key.
Bindweed in Mid June with its Beautiful White Flowers Bindweed, also known as Convolvulus arvensis, is a common weed that produces beautiful white flowers during the summer months, including mid-June. Despite its attractive appearance, bindweed is considered an invasive plant that can be problematic in gardens and agricultural fields. #bindweed
It said: "If left to grow in a wildlife corner or less-cultivated area, or through a mature hedge, it will boost the variety of living organisms (plants, animals, fungi and microorganisms) in a particular environment.
"Boosting the biodiversity of your garden has many benefits, including supporting wildlife, improving soil health and reducing the likelihood of pest and disease problems. biodiversity of your garden and gives you a chance to enjoy its attractive flowers.
"It is, however, a good idea to control the spread of hedge and field bindweed as they are both capable of outcompeting and smothering other plants."
With Bindweed being very common in the UK, it is important to know if it is poisonous to humans or pets.
Thankfully, unlike some other weeds in the UK, Bindweed is not poisonous.
The expert explained: "Luckily, bindweed isn't poisonous to humans or pets, but it can be a nightmare for gardeners trying to keep it under control. This is despite the fact that its flowers can attract pollinators.
"But don't let that fact lull you into letting it run wild - the damage it can do far outweighs any small benefit."
Mr Wood also touched on how best to remove the invasive plant.
The expert warned Brits to "act quickly" if they find Bindweed in their garden.
He also issued a guide on how to attack the plant and get rid of it.
Bindweed can be a pest to properties as it grows fast and infiltrates property boundaries damaging the structure (Image: Getty Images) Mr Wood said: "Pull it up by hand, being careful to remove as much of the root system as possible.
"If you leave even a tiny fragment behind, it can regrow and spread all over again.
"You'll need patience and persistence, and be prepared to keep at it for several growing seasons.
"Herbicides can work, but they often require multiple applications, and be careful not to damage nearby plants."
If you are looking to dig out Bindweed, Mr Wood recommended against it.
Recommended reading:
He said: "You can try digging it out, but be warned - bindweed has a notoriously extensive root system.
"If you miss even a tiny piece, it can regrow with a vengeance. Regular cutting and pulling can keep bindweed in check, but it's a long game.
"Persistence is key, and whatever you do, don't let it flower - that's when it spreads even faster."

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Wales Online
6 minutes ago
- Wales Online
Survey reveals top 20 home maintenance tasks Brits neglect, risking costly repairs
Survey reveals top 20 home maintenance tasks Brits neglect, risking costly repairs A study of 2,000 homeowners found that millions of people are avoiding vital home maintenance jobs, such as replacing showerheads and servicing boilers. Summer is a good time to catch up on essential maintenance (Image: Getty Images ) A survey of 2,000 homeowners has unveiled the top 20 neglected chores around the house, which include replacing shower heads, draught-proofing doors and windows, and cleaning vents and fans. The study revealed that one in 10 adults think about these tasks daily, yet they rarely find the time to tackle them. Instead, a fifth of homeowners confessed that they prioritise the appearance of their homes over essential maintenance. A third admitted they would rather focus on aesthetic tasks such as painting walls or hanging pictures, instead of functional ones like bleeding radiators or servicing boilers. The research revealed that two-thirds of homeowners would only address a home maintenance task if the problem became visible. Jessica Rawstron, an engineer at British Gas, which commissioned the study, commented: "Keeping on top of the little things around the house might not seem urgent, but it can save homeowners a lot of time, money, and stress in the long run." Brits often put off simple tasks (Image: Getty Images ) Jessica added: "Summer can be a good time to catch up on home maintenance tasks that have been forgotten or delayed, with boilers serving as a prime example." Article continues below "Think of it as an MOT for your boiler – it helps identify and resolve any potential problems early, and by booking one in the summer you can have peace of mind that your heating is in full working order before you need it during the colder months," she said. Four out of ten who experienced a malfunction around the house had procrastinated fixing it for a while, only for it to eventually break down completely. A third admitted this resulted in a larger, more expensive issue later on. The main reasons people delay these minor tasks include lack of skills, cost, and time constraints. However, 21 per cent of those surveyed are concerned about making the issue worse. British Gas has devised a home maintenance checklist, providing homeowners with useful reminders of when various tasks need to be carried out throughout the year. It includes optimal times to bleed radiators or setting a reminder to review thermostat settings and contemplate a smart tech upgrade. Jessica added: "A dripping tap or a patch of damp may seem minor now but left unchecked they can quickly turn into much bigger, and more expensive, problems. Regular maintenance not only safeguards your property but also helps maintain its value. Article continues below "Whether you own or rent, staying on top of small fixes is one of the simplest ways to avoid nasty surprises and keep your home running reliably and efficiently. " TOP 20 HOME MAINTENANCE JOBS BRITS PUT OFF: Cleaning gutters Cleaning behind the fridge Fixing a leaky tap Fixing a squeaky door Replacing a toilet seat Servicing the boiler Bleeding radiators Installing a new tap Cleaning vents and fans Replacing kitchen appliances Replacing a light bulb Replacing a showerhead Repairing a roof leak Changing a door lock Installing a doorbell Installing curtain rods Repairing plasterboard Weatherproofing windows and doors Unblocking a sink or toilet Building a garden shed

Leader Live
5 hours ago
- Leader Live
Brits debate the most outrageously overpriced items in UK
Now more than ever, Brits are faced with extortionate costs of everyday life, from energy bills to the weekly food shop. But for those who feel there is an endless list of 'outrageously' overpriced things currently in the UK (from toothpaste to train tickets), you are not alone. It comes as someone asked on Reddit: 'What's the most outrageously overpriced thing in the UK that we just accept?' So far, there has been an overwhelming response to the original post on r/AskUK, including 2.4k upvotes and 3.8k comments. Among the most debated topics where the cost of dropping someone off at an airport, dental work, and car insurance, to name a few. Someone wrote: 'Fast food, but I've actually stopped eating it. 'May as well eat at an actual restaurant when some places charge nearly £30 for 2 meals.' Another said: 'I'm not buying Pringles for £2.75.' While this user shared: 'Hear me out: Tinned fruit. 'Used to be a staple in my childhood as we were on the poverty line. Source of sugar and vitamins for us. It's the dregs of fruit which me and my sister used to fight for the cherry. I remember seeing it for 19p in 2005. "£1.20 a tin.' One Reddit profile commented: 'Fees. 'Hear me out.. booking fee, application fees. Booking a cinema ticket... Fee Mortgage: application fee Gig tickets: fee Online parking: plus fee. 'I'm doing all this myself why do I have to pay a fee aswell.' A frustrated Brit also added: 'Child care/nursery costs. We pay more for our one kid than our mortgage every month.' Further discussing the price of food these days, this person put: 'Fish and chips! 'Used to be the cheap takeaway option. Now it's £8 for a bit of cod and another £5 for some chips.' As a reply to the original post asking people what things they think are 'outrageously' overpriced, one profile posted: 'Women's deodorant, Dove now wants £5 for a 200ml bottle. £5 !? W*f!!' Recommended reading: Waitrose trials major change to loyalty scheme perk (but you could face £3 charge) Sainsbury's to trial change to classic in-store feature - see how it will work Martin Lewis advises anyone with a phone contract to send one free text Another annoyed user said: 'I just hate the size of standard multi pack chocolate bars now. I got a 4 pack of twix for like £2 and you open it and they are the size of the ones in a snack multipack. Ridiculous literally 1 bite sticks.' Meanwhile, another popular response was: 'I needed some toothpaste so popped to my local, £7!!! It was a double sized tube but 7 quid?!' Have you been shocked by the price of anything recently? Let us know how you feel in the comments below.


Wales Online
6 hours ago
- Wales Online
Woman has 600 mile round trip to care for frail parents but gets just £83-a-week
Woman has 600 mile round trip to care for frail parents but gets just £83-a-week She has been forced to give up her job as she juggles her dad's care with regularly making a gruelling 11-hour round-trip from her home in Swansea to Southend to care for her blind mum, but is paid just £1-an-hour Lisa survives on an £83-a-week carers allowance (Image: Carents/ Lisa Ferne ) A woman has revealed how she receives the equivalent of just £1 an hour to care for her frail parents – despite the pair living 300 miles apart. Lisa Ferne felt she had no option other than to stop working to care for her dad after he was diagnosed with dementia. She juggles her dad's care with regularly making a gruelling 11-hour round-trip from her home in Swansea to Southend to care for her blind mum. The 57-year-old, who has a wealth of experience in everything from marketing to photography, said finding a flexible job that also allowed her to care for her parents was 'nigh-on impossible' – so instead she survives on £83-a-week carers allowance. Never miss a Swansea story by signing up to our newsletter here 'I've looked everywhere, including remotely, but it is nigh-on impossible to find anything other than cleaning – and I do enough of that for my dad,' she said. 'I spend at least 80 hours a week caring for dad, and all I can claim from the Government is £83. "But I'm not alone, and that's the saddest thing – there are far too many people in the same boat without enough support. Article continues below 'We do it out of love, but there isn't any social life anymore. I got a dog just to get me out of the house. 'It is what it is, but you can easily lose your own sense of identity if you can't escape the caring world. "I've got skills that I'd love to use, and a job would help return that identity – but juggling both just isn't realistic.' Lisa pictured with her mum (Image: Carents/ Lisa Ferne ) Ms Ferne revealed her struggle ahead of Carers Week, as a poll by a national organisation created to support unpaid adult carers like her found that millions of working-age Brits were being forced to derail their careers due to their caring responsibilities. The national organisation Carents, revealed that 70% of adult carers had been forced to alter their jobs due to the role. Its poll also revealed how 21% of adult carers left work or retired early, and 22% switched to less demanding or more flexible roles, whilst 27% reduced their working hours. Lisa Ferne felt she had no option other than to stop working to care for her dad after he was diagnosed with dementia (Image: Carents/ Lisa Ferne ) 'Our figures show the staggering scale in which adults are having their careers derailed due to the emotional pull of their caring duties,' said Dr Jackie Gray, founder of Carents. 'It shouldn't and doesn't have to be this way, and it is vital that there is more support provided to adult carers – or carents – for them to care alongside their career, rather than in place of it. 'And work isn't just about pay. It provides structure, social interaction and mental stimulation and many carents don't appreciate the long-term impact quitting work will have on their wellbeing.' Ms Ferne added: "I and the other carents across the country want the Government to act and do more for us, to allow us to care for our loved ones – but to help us continue the careers we enjoy.' Article continues below Get Swansea news updates on your phone by joining our WhatsApp community here . We occasionally treat members to special offers, promotions and ads from us and our partners. See our Privacy Notice .