The best time to remove weeds is before their flowering and fructification, otherwise controlling them can be very difficult. After they have flowered and fructified, their seeds can spread very fast, and hence, the weeds should be removed more often and precautions should be taken in advance in the following year. Mulching: During the seed stage, covering the soil with sawdust, straw or black mulches can effectively inhibit seed germination and the growth of seedlings. In the winter or spring, this method is often used to inhibit the seeds in the soil from germinating. If the weeds have already flowered and fructified, then the method can also be used to prevent more seeds from falling into the soil. Pulling out: Wear gloves or use tools to remove weeds before their fructification. If the soil is too dry, then water the soil thoroughly to make it softer, which can help to remove the root systems of the weeds. After that, deep tillage can be adopted to remove bits of weed roots left in the ground. This method works particularly well for weeds that are low-growing or in their seedling stages. Mowing: Mowing weeds before their fructification can effectively control their spread. Especially for annual weeds, frequent mowing can inhibit their growth and fructification, and thus can remove them effectively within the year. Ploughing: Be sure to plough and pull out all roots of perennial weeds before planting. With an average of 16 deep cultivations, the weed can be effectively controlled after two seasons. The roots should be discarded, exposed to the sun for a long time, or buried deep. You can also use the roots to make organic fertilizer and compost the weeds. During the seedling stage, it can be effectively removed by herbicides. Apply herbicides heavily to the plant, and remember to re-apply every time when it reaches 30 cm in length. It can also be eliminated within two seasons, provided that during the period all of its aerial shoots are cut completely and constantly within 12 days of emergence. Boiling water can also be used to eliminate the weed, if there is no other plant growing within 61 to 91 cm of it. Pouring boiling water on the plant as well as about 61 to 91 cm beyond where it is growing can effectively kill it. Competitive plants could impede its growth. Pumpkins, melons or other plants with thorny vines could inhibit field bindweed's growth. Note: When removing weeds, especially those which are toxic, thorny and have allergenic sap, be sure to wear gloves and avoid direct contact with them. When removing weeds during their bloom time, be sure to wear special masks to prevent pollen allergy.