Bindweed Battle

I have been asked what can be done to get rid of Field Bindweed (alias Morning Glory). The first thing to understand is that Bindweed is the king of perennials; it is bred to survive and thrive with roots that can reach 20 feet in depth. Going after Bindweed is a battle, but you can make progress and even be victorious. I have found that to win requires persistence, patience and knowing when to go for the kill. Here are suggestions that have worked for me:
Perennial: Since it is a perennial you have to go for the roots. Cutting, chopping or pulling the roots of mature plants does nothing. Spaying the leaves with a herbicide is a way to get the roots and can be done anytime, but setting up the plants for the kill can make the spraying more effective.
Setting them up for the kill: Continuous cultivating is important. When you see a seedling, that is the time to chop or pull. Before the seedling has a chance to sink its roots it is easy to kill. Remember that seeds can lay dormant in the soil for many years and remain viable. Cultivating turns up seeds to their ideal germination depth and seedlings pop up where you might not expect. What you are accomplishing with cultivation is the prevention of new plants and prevention of new seeds on old plants. Keep cutting plants back through the spring and summer and then let them grow from mid-August on. It might be a little unsightly but by mid to late September the vines are ready. They will be taking nutrients deep into the roots and that is when you want to hit them with 2, 4-D. That will also kill your annuals, but by late September they are pretty much done anyway and their sacrifice is worth it.
Continuing battle: Know from the outset that the battle against Bindweed will be long and needs to be persistent. Repeating the battle plan from year to year will yield noticeable results and ultimate victory. Don't worry about the weed in your grass. 2, 4-D will not harm the grass and keeping the lawn fed and healthy, along with weekly mowing will eventually eliminate the weed.