Tolerates some salinity. Seedlings are typically found along pond and river margins and in lawns, moist meadows, and uncultivated fields. Reproduces by seed and vegetative shoots from roots . Root sections 1 cm long or more can produce new shoots from previously formed buds or develop adventitious buds. Seed disperses with wind, water, and by clinging to fur or feathers of animals and clothing of people.
Some immature seed can continue to mature on cut stems.
Isolated plants or clonal patches produce little seed because of self-incompatibility. Newly matured seed lacks a dormancy period. Seedling establishment increases on sites with high moisture and protective plant cover or litter. Grazing and repeated cultivation can help reduce perennial sowthistle stands by depleting root energy reserves. Cultivation is most efficient when emerging shoots are at the 6-leaf rosette stage.