Getting rid of invasive species requires a commitment to the problem. These species are called ‘invasive’ for a reason. They are experts at surviving, reproducing and spreading, and often have a bank of seeds in the soil from years of reproduction. This means that once the visible vegetation and roots are taken out, the plant often returns for a few years from seed. Others can re-grow from minuscule root and stem fragments.

While we can’t guarantee that after one round of removal the invasives will be completely gone, we can guarantee:

• Our removal will be thorough and allow you to reclaim your property

• After removal the invasive plants will be significantly reduced. If you invest in a plan that allows us to return in the next growing seasons, we can completely get rid of the plants over time.

• We will remove as much of the plant as possible to reduce the likelihood of regrowth

• We use our in-depth knowledge of each species to develop the most effective removal strategy possible

• Our methods will create minimal soil disturbance

• Unless unavoidable, existing native and non-invasive ornamental plants will be left in place

• Our team will use care to contain the seeds and plant matter during removal or transportation

*Please note that quick fixes, like herbicides, can be damaging to soil, are dangerous to pets and wildlife, and create toxic areas where even desirable plants have trouble growing. It is recommended that these chemicals are avoided.

Once the initial removal is complete, it is crucial that there is regular maintenance to ensure the plants do not become re-established. Invasive plants are excellent survivors and will often return from seeds or tiny root fragments for a couple of growing seasons.

We offer monitoring and maintenance to help you stay on top of control.

Get in touch to learn more.

In general, invasive plants spread from seeds and/or roots. Plants that spread by seed (ex. daphne, blackberries) require repeated removal until the seed bank has been exhausted. It’s important that new plants are not left long enough to drop seeds again! With all invasive plants, the entire root system needs to be removed to ensure they don’t regrow. Give us a call to touch up an area before it becomes overwhelming!

Himalayan Blackberries

• Most importantly don’t let your newly cleared area fool you, blackberries are persistent and have likely been dropping seeds for numerous years. Be sure to keep your eyes open for leaves sprouting up and pull them as you see them.
• Be prepared to spend some time each fall and/or spring going over the area for a number of years. If you stay on top of it, it will not become overwhelming. Be persistent and call us if you need help!
• Unless soil erosion is a concern, avoid planting new plants too densely in the area right away. You will want to be able to see and remove anything that pops up easily so that it doesn’t get out of hand.
• If a large area has been cleared of blackberries, consider laying a tarp, cardboard or landscaping fabric over top of the area for the first growing season will help stop resprouting. Be sure to regularly check areas around the covering to make sure sprouts aren’t sneaking out the sides!

Daphne/Spurge Laurel

• Daphne sprouts tend to pop up for a couple of seasons after the main plants have been removed. They start out tiny and can be difficult to identify but it’s a good idea to become familiar with how they look so you can stay on top of removing them while scanning the area.

English Ivy

• If all of the root and leaf fragments are removed, Ivy removal is relatively easy to maintain. However if an ivy infestation was severe, and the roots could not fully be removed (especially if the ivy was intertwined with other plants/trees), new leaves will be visible in just a few weeks. Use those leaves as indicators that parts of the roots remain, get the shovel out and do your best to remove all the roots.

Along with regular monitoring, the most effective way to ensure your property remains free from invasive species is to create a healthy, full landscape. Invasives thrive in areas that are disturbed or where there soil is bare. Filling the spaces with desirable plants is a must! We can help to create a plan for your property to maximize the likelihood that invasives are prevented from returning. Get in touch to learn more.