The anatomy of Convolvulus arvensis, wild morning-glory or field bindweed

Abstract does not appear. First page follows.

Introduction

No one familiar with the economies of agriculture can doubt the importance of weed control, yet very little fundamental research has been published in connection with this problem. The intelligent use of cultural practices or chemical agents depends upon a knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the weed concerned, especially if it is a perennial. The present paper is an attempt to describe those phases of the anatomy of morning-glory which form the background for a physiological study which it is hoped will result in the development of a basic method of control.

Growth Habits

The morning-glory plant, if subjected to varying environmental conditions, occurs in a number of forms. Variation in size and form of the leaves and stems is usually associated with the supply of moisture, but may also result from frequent cutting, which tends to deplete the food reserves in the root. The form of development taken by the root system is frequently related to the soil type and water table. The taproot being primarily a storage organ, a large proportion of the tissue is alive and respiring.