Japanese knotweed is a notoriously difficult-to-get rid of garden weed. It is a highly invasive plant, able to take advantage of disturbed areas such as riverbanks and roadsides where it can gain access to sunlight and fertile soil. It is found in many parts of the UK, and it is often a problem for homeowners who have been trying to use their lawns and gardens as outdoor living spaces. This semi-woody perennial has hollow bamboo-like stems and green heart shaped leaves, and it blooms with small white flowers in late summer and early autumn. It out-competes local plants, and it can also spread from garden to garden, as well as out into neighbouring properties. Fortunately, there are many japanese knotweed removal near me options available, including excavation and chemical treatment.
As with most invasive plants, the best method of dealing with knotweed is prevention rather than cure. Keeping a close eye on your garden during the growing season is important, and you should be sure to remove any new shoots or seeds before they can mature into a full-blown infestation. Cutting back any new growth is also advisable, though this can be quite laborious, especially if there are large clumps of knotweed present.
If you do spot a Japanese knotweed outbreak, it is important to contact the authorities right away. This will ensure that the issue is dealt with promptly and that the weed does not spread further. It is also important to note that the Environmental Agency has made it an offence to cause Japanese knotweed to grow in the wild, whether this is through fly-tipping or letting it escape from your own property.
A common chemical control for Japanese knotweed is glyphosate, which can be applied to cut stems and foliage. This is generally one of the most effective means of controlling the weed, although it can take several applications over the course of a few seasons to eradicate it completely. If you are going to go this route, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use carefully in order to minimise risks to pets, children and wildlife.
Knotweed can be extremely difficult to dig up and dispose of, as it has a deep taproot that extends down into the ground. It is therefore generally recommended that a qualified professional excavated and disposes of the plant, rather than simply spraying it with herbicide. This method is generally more expensive than spraying, but it can be far more reliable and is a more environmentally friendly approach to the problem.
A professional can identify the correct methods of eradication for your particular Japanese knotweed problem and then implement them in an effective manner. When choosing a contractor, it is worth checking their PCA (Pesticides and Plant Growth Regulators Association) registration, as this will help to ensure that they have the necessary training and experience to deal with the problem effectively. It is also a good idea to opt for a company that offers a guarantee on their work, as this can provide peace of mind that the weed will be completely eradicated.