Ragweed and allergens: Understanding the issues and solutions

What is the health impact of ragweed?

According to the Institut national de santé publique du Québec (INSPQ), ragweed pollen is responsible for 50% to 90% of seasonal allergies in Quebec, making it the leading cause of seasonal allergic rhinitis.

What factors influence pollen proliferation?

Studies show that several factors can influence pollen productivity, including :

• Climate change leading to temperature rises;
• Increased concentration of CO₂ in the air, which promotes pollen production;
• Increased pollen dispersal and distribution in the environment.

How to limit the proliferation of ragweed?

To reduce the presence of ragweed, several preventive management and control methods can be implemented:

• Establish plant cover: Ragweed is a poor competitor in areas where vegetation is well established.
• Redefining the use of certain environments: Favoring layouts with a richer biodiversity and less allergenic.
• More frequent mowing: Reduce pollen production, especially in the clearings around biodiversity areas.

Source: INSPQ (2013) – État des connaissances sur le pollen et les allergies: les fondations pour une gestion efficace.

How to recognize ragweed in summer?

Identifying ragweed is essential to limit its spread. Specific characteristics enable us to recognize it and intervene quickly.