Common Ragweed

What is Ragweed?

• An annual broadleaf weed that produces allergenic pollen
• Ragweed blooms in late summer to early fall
• Each plant produces about a billion pollen grains per season
• With the help of the wind, ragweed can travel distances greater than 200 kilometres
• Ragweed has a jagged leaf and tannish-green flower stalks
• It can grow to a height of anywhere from 1 - 6 feet

Where is Ragweed found?

You can find ragweed all over Southern Ontario, often growing with a plant called goldenrod. Goldenrod pollen is not carried on the wind like ragweed pollen.

You can find ragweed in:

• Gardens
• Poorly kept lawns
• Sidewalk edges
• Fence-lines
• Along roadsides

How can Ragweed affect my health?

Ragweed can cause a number of health problems for some people:

• Hay fever, which includes sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes
• A skin rash (allergic contact dermatitis)
• Coughing and wheezing
• Scratchy and irritated throat
• Headaches
• Difficulty sleeping

Are there Ragweed By-laws in Halton?

The Provincial Weed Control Act (R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 1096) requires land owners to destroy ragweed.

• Milton: No By-law
• Oakville: No By-law
• Halton Hills: Included as a “nuisance weed” requiring removal under Community Standards By-law. (No. 2008-0138)
• Burlington: Require removal of weeds (including ragweed) from May 1 to October 15 each year. (By-law No. 12-2011)

Does the Ontario Pesticides Ban permit municipalities to spray Ragweed?

Yes, the Ontario Pesticides Ban (external link) contains exceptions to certain plants to protect public health and safety.

How can I get rid of Ragweed?

Since ragweed spreads by seed, eliminating this weed should focus on preventing seed production. We recommend hand-pulling the ragweed as the plants are easy to pull out with their shallow root systems. We recommend using gloves.

What can I do to protect my health?

Use the following precautionary measures to reduce exposure:

• Minimize outdoor activities when pollen count is highest (10 a.m.- 4 p.m.)
• Monitor local weather report for local pollen counts
• Keep windows closed and use air conditioning at home and in the car
• Mow your grass often and wear a dust/pollen mask while you mow
• Wear wraparound sunglasses to prevent pollen from blowing into your eyes
• Avoid places with lots of weeds and tall grasses, like parks or fields
• Clean your furnace/air-conditioner filter frequently

How can I treat my allergies?

If you experience an allergic reaction, speak to your doctor about over-the-counter or prescription medications to help control your symptoms.