Canadian professional weed was introduced to Europe from North America (Canada) in the 17th century. Until now, the plant has occurred rather rarely as a weed in crop stands. Recently, however, conspicuously larger occurrences have been observed in fields.

The plant is undemanding, drought tolerant and requires light. In Austria, the Canadian professional weed is widespread and occurs in all provinces. The species mainly colonizes sites such as wasteland, rubble piles and railroad yards. In annual crop stands, Canada bindweed has hardly been observed so far, but observations show that the species occurs increasingly especially in soybean and sugar beet (e.g. in the Weinviertel) and occasionally in cereals. In viticulture and orchards, the plant is more common as a weed.

The spread of the species takes place through seeds. A single plant can produce up to 100,000 seeds. The fruits are crowned with hairs and can be dispersed by wind up to 500 m from the seed source.

Significant yield losses can occur in fields. For example, studies have shown that soybean yields drop by up to 40% when Canada bindweed is left uncontrolled. In orchards and vineyards, yields can be reduced due to water and nutrient deprivation. In addition, the plants interfere with maintenance and harvesting operations as they grow into the tree crown and vine, respectively.

• Turning base soil (fall). The germination capacity of seeds decreases significantly as the burial depth increases
• Tillage during the seedling and rosette stage.
• Selection and use of effective herbicides in crops(see list of plant protection products approved in Austria).