Amidst the lush, tranquil greenscape of Victoria, British Columbia, lurks an insidious botanical invader – the spurge laurel (Daphne laureola). Unassuming in appearance yet deadly in nature, this plant has insidiously woven itself into Victoria's picturesque scenery, posing an escalating threat to the local ecology and public health.

Brought from Europe and North Africa with innocent intentions, the spurge laurel was admired for its aesthetic allure, including its glossy leaves and dark berries. However, these seemingly innocent plants harbour a sinister secret – the presence of a potent poison named daphnin, found in every inch from the bark to the berries. The repercussions of this toxicity range from severe skin irritation to, alarmingly, fatal health complications if ingested. As little as 2-3 berries will prove to be fatal for children. Yet, the majority of the city’s inhabitants remain uninformed of the lurking danger in their backyards and local parks.

Simultaneously, spurge laurel has proved itself to be highly invasive. By suffocating native flora with its rapid growth, it upends local ecosystems, which has far-reaching implications for the fauna relying on indigenous plants for survival. This insidious invader's collateral damage extends far beyond its immediate vicinity, impacting the broader environmental tapestry of Victoria.

In the face of such a multifaceted threat, it becomes crucial that the task of spurge laurel eradication be undertaken by seasoned professionals, well-versed in the nuances of vegetation management. Ascent Yard Care based in Victoria, commended by the Canadian Council on Invasive Species, has developed an innovative and eco-friendly method to tackle this challenge.

Their technique is a two-pronged approach, involving minimal use of herbicides, making it environmentally friendly and efficient. In the initial phase, the spurge laurel is cut down to ground level. A small quantity of a specially formulated herbicide is precisely applied one drop at a time to the freshly cut stump, which is absorbed swiftly and quickly reaches the roots. This approach leaves minimal environmental footprints as the herbicide evaporates within ten minutes, thus preventing contamination of the surrounding soil and vegetation.

A month later, the team revisits the site to inspect for any signs of re-growth. If new shoots are found, they are precision spot treated with single drops of herbicide, curtailing further expansion. This method kills the spurge laurel and effectively ensures that it stays dead, preserving the health and safety of the local populace.

The battle against spurge laurel is not simply about landscaping or beautifying our surroundings; it is a critical step towards preserving Victoria's rich biodiversity and ensuring the wellbeing of its residents. Armed with knowledge, commitment, and the right tools, we can reclaim our landscapes from this silent aggressor. The story of spurge laurel serves as a reminder that even in our tranquil corners of the world, vigilance remains our greatest asset in maintaining ecological balance and public health.

Spurge Laurel removal cost

We provide spurge laurel removal in both Victoria, BC and Vancouver, BC. Contact us for a free in-person quote.