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How to Manage Pests

Identification: Weed Photo Gallery

Morningglories

Scientific name: Ipomoea spp. (Family Convolvulaceae)

Life stages of Morningglories top picture bottom picture

Click on image to enlarge

DESCRIPTION:
Morningglories, often called annual morningglories, have heart-shaped, first true leaves with deep lobes at the base. Seedling leaves are more deeply notched and much larger than those of field bindweed. Mature plants have long stems that climb and twine. The funnel-shaped flower varies in color, from violet or blue to pink and red. Morningglories are a major weed problem in New Mexico, Arizona, and in the San Joaquin Valley of California, where several species of Ipomoea are found. Seeds germinate down to a depth of 4 inches (10 cm) or more, much deeper than most annuals. Most seedlings emerge following irrigations, but they may also appear when surface soil is too dry to allow germination of other annuals. Control is critical from crop emergence to harvest. Destroy seedlings while they are small, because once they have twined up stems they are difficult to control without injuring the crop. Seeds remain viable in soil for long periods.

Broadleaf ID illustration.


Statewide IPM Program, Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California
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For noncommercial purposes only, any Web site may link directly to this page. FOR ALL OTHER USES or more information, read Legal Notices. Unfortunately, we cannot provide individual solutions to specific pest problems. See How to manage pests, or in the U.S., contact your local Cooperative Extension office for assistance. /PMG/WEEDS/morningglories.html revised: March 11, 2008. Contact webmaster.