Hugo Meunier, a host with Radio-Canada Grand Montréal, spent Wednesday evening walking the streets of Plateau-Mont-Royal to examine the rapid spread of a plant known locally as ‘herbe à poux.’ Accompanied by colleague Monic Néron, the broadcast team documented how the weed’s proliferation appears to be intensifying seasonal allergy symptoms among residents.
The on‑the‑ground investigation, conducted on 23 September 2026, focused on neighborhoods where the plant has become especially abundant. Meunier and Néron noted dense clusters of the green foliage emerging in public gardens, vacant lots and along sidewalks. Their observations were recorded for a special segment intended to inform listeners about the possible health implications of the weed’s growth.
Local residents have voiced concern that the increase in ‘herbe à poux’ coincides with a noticeable rise in sneezing, itchy eyes and other allergy indicators during the spring and early summer months. While no new scientific study was cited, the hosts linked the timing of the weed’s expansion with the worsening of these symptoms, suggesting a correlation that merits further attention.
Radio-Canada Grand Montréal plans to continue monitoring the situation, with Meunier and Néron returning to the Plateau for follow‑up reporting. The investigation underscores the broader challenge of managing urban vegetation that may affect public health, especially in densely populated districts such as Plateau-Mont‑Royal.
Authorities have not yet released official statements regarding control measures for the weed. In the meantime, the radio segment aims to raise awareness among listeners, encouraging them to observe the plant’s presence and consider its potential impact on seasonal allergies.
The episode, aired later on Wednesday night, featured the hosts’ walk-through footage and interviews with neighbors who described heightened allergy discomfort. The coverage adds to ongoing community dialogue about environmental factors that influence health in Montreal’s neighborhoods.