The seeds germinate near the surface of the soil, sending up thin pale green and yellow stems.
can simultaneously parasitize different host plants, suggesting that the species may have a complex foraging strategy.
About 10-15 species of Cuscuta, out of the known 200, are considered agricultural weeds which wrap their vines around their hosts and obtain their nutrients from them through specialized organs called haustoria.
[citation needed] The native range of this species is unclear but thought to be North America, specifically Canada, US, and Mexico.
[6] Cuscuta campestris can be found growing in grasslands, open woodlands, gardens, riparian zones, and wetlands.
[13] Germination can occur regardless of the amount of light available, as long as temperatures are between 10-30 C and the seeds are able to remain viable for up to 10 years in soil.
By combining preventative, chemical, mechanical, and cultural methods, the populations of Cuscuta campestris can be reduced.
[5] Scattered infestations can be dealt with using a hand-held flame gun, hand-pulling the host plants with the Cuscuta campestris parasite attached, or by mowing with a shallow blade.
[6] Cuscuta campestris is mainly spread by people, education to discourage carrying the plants to other locations is recommended.
[5] Cultural control is another method for removing Field Dodder from an area, planting non-host crops, such as wheat, broccoli, corn, sorghum, and legumes can significantly reduce their presence.