Cobham, Surrey -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/28/2016 -- Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is a highly invasive plant that appears all over the UK during the summer months. Although rather attractive in appearance, Japanese knotweed can be a real challenge to landowners, as it spreads rapidly causing widespread damage. In winter the plant dies back beneath the ground, but by late spring, the bamboo-like stems can start to grow to over 2 to 3 meters in height, suppressing all other growth.
The eradication or removal of Japanese Knotweed requires determination as it can be very hard to remove by hand, or even through the use of herbicides or chemicals. Legislation in England and Wales covers how Japanese Knotweed should be controlled and handled.
The History of Japanese Knotweed
Japanese knotweed was introduced from Japan in 1825 as an ornamental plant. The plant produces beautiful flowers in summer however its rapid annual growth and relentless spread, allows it to easily overwhelm other garden plants. It is not uncommon for Knotweed to grow up through properties or driveways, leaving a trail of devastation in its path. Where knotweed is established as a wayside weed, other native weeds can also be aggressively over-run. Japanese Knotweed does not produce seeds however it can sprout from very small sections of rhizomes. It is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to cause Japanese knotweed to grow in the wild.
Japanese Knotweed Removal DIY
If you're considering how to kill Japanese Knotweed or remove it from your property, here's a few guidelines from Japanese Knotweed Specialist Nic Seal:
1.Chemical Treatments don't often kill Japanese Knotweed
Trying to kill Japanese knotweed using chemicals is not always completely effective. Chemicals typically stunt the growth. Some herbicide DIY treatments for knotweed can take up to 5 years and don't come with any guarantees. In many cases, the rhizome, or root of the plant remains and can often result in regrowth further down the line.
2.Excavation of the affected area can be extensive
As with any excavation project, the amount of earth removed can create challenges, particularly for home owners. The Environmental Protection Act 1990 provides legal requirements for how Japanese Knotweed should be removed off-site. You should avoid spreading contaminated soil and use an expert to assist with safe removal of the rhizome.
3.Don't allow Japanese Knotweed to encroach on your neighbor's property
Always speak to your neighbors about the knotweed problem first. Discuss any treatment you have planned. In many cases, a root barrier may be required, as you can be held liable if the knotweed gets onto their land.
It is not uncommon for people to undertake Japanese knotweed removal or treatment without the assistance of an expert. DIY Japanese knotweed removal is not normally a good idea. In most cases people don't understand how time consuming and complicated it can be to remove knotweed from an area. If you want more information on how to get rid of Japanese knotweed contact the specialists at Environet UK Ltd.
For more information about Japanese Knotweed Removal visit http://www.environetuk.com
About Environet UK
Environet was established in 1996 and leads the fight against Japanese knotweed in the UK. They have successfully removed Japanese Knotweed from thousands of commercial and residential sites throughout the UK. Their specialist team are located across the country and are standing by to give impartial advice with your Japanese Knotweed Removal problem.
Head Quarters: Environet UK Ltd, Clockbarn, Tannery Lane, Send, Woking, Surrey, GU23 7EF
Phone: 01932 868700
Email: expert@environetuk.com