It spreads from an extensive rootstock as well as from seed. The root system may reach depths of 20 feet or more and the rhizomes can be several feet long. Most parts of the bindweed roots and rhizomes can produce adventitious buds, which can create new roots and shoots. Roots capable of budding are found to depths of 14 feet. Fragments of vertical roots and rhizomes that are as short as 2 inches can form new plants.
Lateral roots serve another important function.
At about 15 to 30 inches from the parent plant, a lateral often turns downward, becoming a secondary vertical root, and sends out both roots and shoots from the turning point. By this means a single field bindweed plant can spread radially more than 10 feet in a growing season. This extensive underground network allows for overwintering without foliage and can persist for many years in the soil. An average plant produces about 550 seeds. Within 1 month after forming, the seed coat matures and becomes impervious to water.