Cut periwinkle to ground level

Cut it down to ground level with a string trimmer, hedge trimmer or hand clippers. Cutting alone will not eliminate periwinkle. Periwinkle will regrow from its roots but this is an important first step.

Pull periwinkle out from the roots

Small and young periwinkle plants can be pulled out from the roots. This is easiest when the soil is soft and wet.

Dig out the roots

Use a pickaxe or shovel to dig out the roots. Mature periwinkle roots can grow as deep as 3 feet downward.

Be careful of spreading cuttings

Do not leave even small cuttings of periwinkle on the ground. The cuttings will take root and sprout a new plant. It is very important to take the plant to a disposal facility or bag it in a plastic bag so further spreading does not occur.

Mowing

An alternative to pulling or digging out the roots is to mow the area regularly. If the area is flat enough to mow this is an effective method. Periwinkle grows very quickly so the area will need to be mowed weekly in order for it to be effective.

Treatments:

We employ eco-friendly treatments to fully eradicate periwinkle. By precisely treating small new leaves with our targeted approach, we ensure the entire root system dies within a month of treatment. Our treatments are safe and do not harm other plants or affect soil conditions, and there is no risk of run-off.

Covering

Cut the periwinkle to ground level. Cover the area in an opaque tarp or sheet of plastic. It is very important no light can pass through the covering. This will prevent the periwinkle from photosynthesizing and the plants and root system will eventually die after one year or more of being covered.

Expert Help:

We care intensely about the success of each project. Contact us for a free in-person quote in Victoria, BC.

Understanding Periwinkle

"Periwinkle," also known as "Vinca," is an intrusive and invasive plant species widely spread across Vancouver Island. This plant is known for its ability to generate dense mats that quickly expand. It possesses a far-reaching root system that can sprout new plants as far as 20 feet away. Forests are an ideal environment for it, where it forms thick blankets that overtake native species, harming the ecosystem.

The Invasive Nature of Periwinkle

Periwinkle's invasiveness can be attributed to several factors:

• The plant's ability to form large clusters that can cover acres
• Its extensive root system that continuously produces and disperses new plants
• Its stems can root and generate new plants
• It exhibits an exceptional level of growth resilience and vigor, capable of regrowing after cutting

The Importance of Periwinkle Elimination

The need to eliminate Periwinkle arises from several problems and risks it presents:

• Uncontrolled spread which worsens over time
• Providing a potential nesting ground for rodents
• Inflicting harm to natural waterways
• Displacing indigenous species
• The threat of invasion to neighbouring properties
• Its fast and sturdy growth in the understory of Pacific Northwest forests

The Process of Permanent Periwinkle Eradication:

The first step involves removing all the above-ground vines and Periwinkle material using power cutters. The cut material is then transported away, followed by the excavation of the root material.

If necessary, we utilize eco-friendly methods to wipe out Periwinkle. This includes cutting the plant down to its stump and meticulously treating any emerging leaves. The root system eventually dies following this treatment. Our method ensures the safety of other plants and avoids any soil activity or runoff.

Ascent Yard Care, since its establishment in 2017, has successfully eradicated hundreds of Periwinkle infestations.

The Cost of Removing Periwinkle:

We offer a complimentary in-person quote in Victoria, BC, during which Jake will provide a detailed work order and estimate.

Is There a Chance of Periwinkle Regrowth?

In the case of particularly severe infestations, up to two subsequent visits may be needed to completely remove any regrowth. However, most Periwinkle patches are typically fully eradicated in one visit.

Expert Assistance:

For a Free Quote, feel free to reach out to us. The success of each project is of utmost importance to us.