Top-Rated Invasive Hawthorn Removal on South Vancouver Island

Hawthorn trees (Crataegus spp.), particularly the non-native invasive varieties, have become a growing problem across South Vancouver Island. With their dense, thorn-covered branches and aggressive spread, invasive hawthorn can take over pastures, forest edges, roadsides, and residential properties—creating safety hazards, damaging fences, and outcompeting native vegetation.

At Ascent Yard Care, we specialize in professional, permanent hawthorn removal. As the Island’s largest invasive plant removal company, we provide full-service solutions for homeowners, landowners, and municipalities—from small yard infestations to large-scale rural clearing. We remove hawthorn completely—roots, stumps, and all—and restore your land to a healthier, more manageable state.

Why Invasive Hawthorn Is a Problem

While native hawthorn species have a place in local ecosystems, many of the hawthorn trees spreading across South Vancouver Island are non-native varieties that have become aggressive and invasive. These trees are especially common in rural pastures, trail systems, disturbed lands, and abandoned fields, where they spread unchecked and create dense, impenetrable thickets.

Hawthorn causes problems such as:

• Sharp thorns up to 3 inches long, which injure people, livestock, and pets
• Rapid spread through seed and root suckers, forming dense groves
• Damage to fencing and equipment when growing along property lines
• Crowding out native vegetation, reducing biodiversity
• Reduced land usability for grazing, recreation, and restoration efforts

Attempting to remove hawthorn without proper tools and strategy can be frustrating—and even dangerous—due to its thorny growth and tendency to resprout from cut stumps and root fragments.

Ascent’s Professional Hawthorn Removal Process

Removing hawthorn properly requires a strategic and forceful approach, especially when dealing with large or established groves. At Ascent Yard Care, we combine mechanical removal, root extraction, and selective herbicide treatments to ensure hawthorn is fully eliminated.

1. Site Inspection

We begin with a full property assessment to map out the extent of the hawthorn infestation and develop a plan based on tree size, density, and terrain. Whether it’s a single row or multiple acres, we customize the approach to suit your land.

2. Mechanical or Manual Clearing

Our crews use brush cutters, saws, and excavators to cut down and remove all above-ground growth, then excavate root crowns and major lateral roots to prevent regrowth. We take extra care to remove thorn-covered debris and ensure safe disposal.

3. Stump & Root Treatment (Optional)

To prevent sprouting from stumps or root fragments, we offer selective herbicide application by certified technicians. This is especially important in sites where mechanical root removal isn’t practical, such as near tree lines or sensitive slopes.

4. Cleanup & Restoration

All hawthorn debris is removed from site or chipped as needed. We also offer replanting services, native plant restoration, or erosion control measures to help restore the site and prevent re-invasion.

Why South Vancouver Island Chooses Ascent Yard Care

Ascent Yard Care is the go-to provider for invasive tree and shrub removal on Vancouver Island. We bring deep experience, full insurance coverage, and dedicated crews who specialize in invasive plant control—not just general landscaping.

Why clients trust us:

• Permanent hawthorn removal, including root systems
• Fully equipped for large rural projects and tricky access areas
• WCB-covered and insured crews, trained in thorny, hazardous plant handling
• Licensed herbicide applicators for safe, effective regrowth prevention
• Excellent cleanup and follow-through, leaving properties better than we found them
• Island-wide service, with fast response times and scalable crew capacity

Whether you need a single tree removed or an entire property reclaimed, we get the job done efficiently and professionally.

Areas We Serve

We provide invasive hawthorn removal across South Vancouver Island, including:

• Victoria
• Oak Bay
• Saanich
• Langford
• Metchosin
• Highlands
• View Royal
• Sooke
• Mill Bay
• Cobble Hill
• Shawnigan Lake
• Cowichan Valley
• Gulf Islands (by request)

Get a Free Hawthorn Removal Quote Today

If invasive hawthorn is overtaking your land or posing a safety risk, don’t wait. Call Vancouver Island’s most experienced invasive removal team for permanent results.