What is periwinkle?

Periwinkle also known as "Vinca" is an ornamental and invasive plant widespread on Vancouver island. Periwinkle forms dense mats that rapidly expand in size. Periwinkle has an extensive root system that spreads rapidly and sprouts new plants as far as 20 feet away. Periwinkle thrives in forests where it creates thick mats that choke out native species.

Why is periwinkle invasive?

• Periwinkle forms large patches that can cover several acres of land
• Periwinkle has an extensive root system that spreads and sprouts new plants constantly
• Periwinkle stems take root and create new plants
• Periwinkle has extremely vigorous and resilient growth that re-grows after cutting

Why is it crucial to remove periwinkle?

• Periwinkle infestations will get worse over time
• Rodents nest in periwinkle patches
• Periwinkle can harm natural waterways
• Periwinkle crowds out native species
• Periwinkle roots can destroy septic fields
• Periwinkle can spread to neighbouring property
• Periwinkle thrives and spreads rapidly in the understory of our Pacific Northwest forests

Permanently removing periwinkle

We remove all the above ground vines and periwinkle material with powered cutters, the cut material is hauled away. We then dig out the root material.

When necessary, we employ eco-friendly treatments to eradicate periwinkle. This involves cutting the plant down to the stump, then precisely treating the small new leaves that sprout. Following the treatment the root system will die. Our treatment will not kill other plants and has no soil activity or run off.

Ascent Yard Care has permanently removed hundreds of periwinkle infestations since our business was founded in 2017.

Periwinkle removal cost

Contact us for a free in-person quote in Victoria, BC and Jake will provide an exact work order and quote.

Won’t the periwinkle just grow back?

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

Expert Help:

Contact us for a Free Quote. We care intensely about the success of each project.

Want to try removing periwinkle yourself? Follow these tips:

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.

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.