What is baby’s breath?

Baby’s breath is an invasive plant widespread on Vancouver Island. Baby’s breath is a bushy plant full of many tiny white or light pink star shaped flowers. It is common in flower arrangements.

What makes baby’s breath invasive?

• Baby’s breath spreads rapidly
• Just one baby’s breath plant can spread over 10,000 seeds
• Baby’s breath can spread both by seed and by roots
• Baby’s breath displaces native plants
• It can grow in many climates

Why is it important to remove?

• Baby’s breath infestations will get worse over time
• Baby’s breath infestations can harm natural waterways
• Heavy baby’s breath infestations can become a fire hazard
• Baby’s breath can spread to neighbouring properties
• Baby’s breath can choke out native species

Permanently removing baby’s breath

Cut to ground level

To permanently remove a baby’s breath infestation, start by cutting it down to ground level with a string trimmer, hedge trimmer, or hand clippers. Cutting alone will not completely remove the baby's breath, but is an important first step.

Dig out the roots

Small or young baby’s breath can be pulled from the roots. Larger or mature baby’s breath can be dug out with a pickaxe or shovel. Both options are easiest with damp and soft soil.

Be careful of spreading cuttings

Baby’s breath can spread by root and by seed. Be sure not to leave any cuttings on the ground as they will take root and sprout a new plant. It’s important to dispose of the cuttings at a disposal facility or in a plastic bag to prevent seeds and roots from spreading.

Covering

Cover the cut baby’s breath with an opaque tarp or sheet of plastic. It is important that no light can pass through the covering. This will prevent the baby’s breath from photosynthesizing and the root system will eventually die after one year or more of being covered.

Baby’s breath removal cost

Contact us for a free in-person quote in Victoria, BC and Jake will provide an exact work order and pricing. We care intensely about the success of each project.

Won’t the baby’s breath  just grow back?

In the worst infestations up to 2 follow up visits may be necessary to completely eradicate re-growth. Most baby’s breath patches we service are completely and permanently removed in one visit.

Expert help

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