Invasive Plant Removal

Here are a few of the most common invasive plants to see in an Ontario garden. Invasive plant removal should be done in consultation with an expert. The best method is usually digging up as much of the root system as possible and then covering with a thick black sheet of plastic for at least one season. At that time, you can begin to re-generate the soil and add new plants. 

Aegopodium podagraria

For a small area, digging and pulling over a number of seasons will be critical to its removal. For a larger area, smothering with a large, thick piece of black plastic - over an entire growing season - will kill the plant. You will need to replenish the top soil in this instance.

Campanula rapunculoides

Creeping Bellflower (also known as CBF) is the worst gift that keeps on giving. Critical to its removal is early identification and pulling out as much of the root system as possible. Do not let this plant go to seed. In larger infestations, you may need to smother the area with black plastic.

Alliaria petiolata

This invasive is a biennial, going to flower (and seed) in its second year. The BEST way to approach removal is to hand pull after a long rainy period. This plant is easily pulled when the soil is wet. Keep at it and you will win this battle. 

Vincetoxicum rossicum

Dog-strangling vine (aka DSV) is a difficult beast to tame. Many suggest NOT pulling, but cutting it back at the base and mulching thickly in that area. There may be some validity to chemical intervention, but highly recommend consulting a professional before applying any chemical intervention.

Glechoma hederacea

Similar to goutweed, for smaller areas, hand pulling is a good place to start. For larger areas, smothering with thick, block plastic will solarize the area and (hopefully) kill the root systems after one full season. 

Ambrosia arteisiifolia

If you can get deep, pulling these should be doable. just be sure to get ALL the root when you dig it up. DO NOT LET GO TO SEED.