Ragwort Removal in Victoria, BC – Licensed, Permanent Control of a Toxic Invader

Common ragwort (Jacobaea vulgaris) is more than just a weed. It’s toxic to horses and livestock, invasive across fields and roadsides, and extremely difficult to eliminate without the right tools and training.

Left untreated, ragwort spreads aggressively by seed and root—infesting pastures, fence lines, meadows, and disturbed soils. The plants can lie dormant for years before reappearing, and even a single plant can produce thousands of wind-borne seeds.

At Ascent Yard Care, we specialize in professional ragwort removal across Victoria and the South Island. We’re one of the few companies licensed in British Columbia to apply herbicides, which means we can kill ragwort at the root safely, legally, and permanently.

Why Ragwort Is a Serious Problem on South Vancouver Island

• Highly toxic to horses and cattle—even when dry in hay
• Spreads aggressively through disturbed soil, ditches, and open fields
• Seed production is enormous—one plant can spread across an entire property
• Resistant to cutting and most DIY methods—returns stronger each season
• Legal responsibility—in many areas, landowners are required to control it

Our Proven Ragwort Removal Strategy

We tailor our approach based on site conditions, size of infestation, and proximity to livestock, native species, or water sources.

1. On-Site Assessment

We evaluate where and how ragwort is spreading, whether it’s growing among desirable species or in open pasture, and whether it’s been cut previously.

2. Mechanical Removal (When Appropriate)

For small infestations or sensitive areas, we manually cut and bag flowering stalks before seed set, followed by root excavation. We safely dispose of material off-site.

3. Licensed Herbicide Application

This is the key step for full eradication.

We are certified to apply herbicides in BC, allowing us to treat:

• Rosette-stage ragwort in early spring or fall
• Regrowth after flowering
• Hard-to-access roadside or ditch areas

We use selective herbicides that target ragwort without damaging grass or surrounding pasture, applied via spot spraying or wicking for maximum control and minimal impact.

4. Ongoing Monitoring & Restoration

We offer follow-up spot treatments as needed, and can assist with re-seeding pastures or meadow areas to prevent re-invasion and restore balance.

Where We Remove Ragwort

• Acreages and homesteads
• Horse properties and riding areas
• Pastures and open fields
• Rural ditches, fence lines, and trails
• Roadsides, gravel drives, and disturbed soil areas
• Naturalized landscapes and restoration zones

Why Choose Ascent Yard Care?

We’re Licensed and Legal

Herbicide use in BC is regulated. Most landscapers cannot legally treat ragwort with herbicide—we can. We follow all provincial regulations and treat responsibly.

We Work at Scale

Whether it’s a small infestation or a multi-acre field, we have the crew size, equipment, and experience to handle it efficiently and effectively.

We’re Not Just Sprayers

We combine herbicide with digging, cutting, reseeding, and restoration—so the solution actually lasts.

We Understand Ragwort Biology

We treat at the right stage of growth, with the right product, in the right conditions—so you don’t waste time or money trying to do it again next year.

Service Area – Greater Victoria & South Vancouver Island

We remove ragwort in:

• Victoria
• Saanich
• Metchosin
• Highlands
• Langford
• Colwood
• North Saanich & Sidney
• Mill Bay, Shawnigan Lake, Cobble Hill
• Gulf Islands (select availability)
• Acreage, rural, and equestrian properties throughout the region

Best Time for Treatment

• Spring and Fall (rosette stage): Ideal for root-level herbicide effectiveness
• Early Summer: Manual cut and bag before flowering
• Late Summer/Early Fall: Post-flowering cleanup and follow-up control

We offer seasonal programs or one-time removal, depending on your needs.

Protect Your Property from Toxic Spread

Ragwort won’t go away on its own—and once it seeds, it can take over entire landscapes and put animals at risk.

If you want it gone—and gone for good—call the professionals who are trained, licensed, and committed to doing the job right.