(Video coming soon). With bindweed eradication, the goal is to remove the taproot and side/lateral branches without chopping the root into fragments, which can regrow weeds. Go slow to keep the taproot in tact and so that soil doesn't cover the weed. If you have an entire field of bindweed, consider dirt removal.

Before you begin: 

• Get two 8" round-point shovels and a bucket. 

• If you have mulch in/around the weed, move the mulch to the side so that it stays soil-free. You can reapply the same mulch after you return the soil.

• Be cognisant of your sprinkler lines' depth, usually 8"-12", and main and lateral routes so that you don't damage your lines with your shovel blade.

Step 1: Locate the center of the weed by gathering up and fully extending the weed's stems upright like you would hair destined for a ponytail. Center is the area still secured to soil.

Step 2: With an eye on center, line up 8" round-point shovel's blade tip 2" away from center, then slowly insert blade 7" inches down at a 90 degree angle (upright) or less if your sprinkler lines are shallow.

Step 3: Push down on the shovel handle until the tip of the shovel is almost out of the ground and holding the solid mound of dirt, including the weed. 

Step 4: Gently shake the soil that's wresting on the shovel to separate the weed from the sourrounding soil. Do not remove the shovel yet.

Step 5: Gently pull up the weed straight up to extract the entire taproot.

Do you get the entire taproot (see pic above)?

Yes:

• If the weed lifts easily and you get what appears to be the entire taproot, set aside all roots into a bucket.

No:

• If the weed doesn't immediately lift, the weed might still be anchored by root or the soil it too compact or moist. Reinsert the shovel and shake the soil off the shovel and into its original location. Repeat the Steps 1-4, moving 1" outward from initial center.

• If the weed still doesn't lift, lift the shovel blade with one hand on each side, craddling the soil. Place the shovel blade upright on the ground to act as a bowl. Gently break apart the soil, setting aside all roots into a bucket. Pick out and discard even the slightest fragments that look a lot like alfalfa sprouts. Inspect the hole for clues of residual roots. Use the other shovel to repeat the process until no roots are observed.

Step 6: Return the soil to its orginal hole with a gentle shake of the shovel blade to dislodge the soil. Note: If it wasn't possible to set aside the surrounding mulch because weeds cover a large area, do not shake the soil. Instead return the soil layers so soil and mulch don't mix: starting at the top of shovel blade, push the soil off the shovel with your foot in a sliding motion.

See Also Weed Blockers and Herbicide Alternatives to learn about a bindweed-eating mite.