Japanese Knotweed

Find out how you can benefit when you choose us to carry your free Japanese Knotweed survey*

If you require our five-year herbicide treatment plan we can offer you a host of unparalleled advantages.

Your initial survey will be offered at no charge, You will receive a ten-year insurance-backed guarantee, at no extra cost.
We understand the importance of financial flexibility, hence the option of installment payments for the treatment plan*.
Our status as a smaller company allows us to waive VAT charges, enhancing the affordability of our services.
Additionally, for those requiring immediate assistance, we guarantee same-day delivery of both survey and report.
Our surveyors are PCA-accredited Japanese Knotweed specialists,
ensuring you receive expert guidance and treatment.

You can still sell your property if you have Japanese knotweed. 

Click play on the video to find out more →

For Buyers:

When buying, the seller’s responses on the TA6 form will indicate the presence of Japanese Knotweed. Mortgage lenders often demand proof of a planned eradication, typically requiring a professional plan with a transferable warranty. Generally, the seller provides this eradication plan before sale completion.

Proactive Measures:

Whether you are a buyer or seller, proactive inspection for Japanese Knotweed is advisable. Misidentification, nondisclosure, or absence of a management plan can lead to disputes, process delays, or additional costs. In worst-case scenarios, it could even result in a misrepresentation claim post-sale. Taking early steps to identify and manage Japanese Knotweed can prevent these issues. towering stands of bamboo-like canes by summer, reaching heights up to 2.1 meters (7 feet). The canes, notable for their purple speckles, sprout branches at various points along their length.

house showing Japanese knotweed van outside

What is Japanese

Scientifically known as Reynoutria japonica or Fallopia japonica, is a rapidly spreading invasive species. During winter, it retreats underground, only to resurface in early summer. Its bamboo-like stems can rapidly grow over 2.1 meters (7 feet), overshadowing surrounding vegetation.  Successfully eliminating this weed demands persistence, as manual removal and chemical treatments prove challenging.  Recent laws have been enacted to regulate its management, underscoring the importance of professional intervention for adequate control.

The Surprising Journey of Japanese Knotweed to the UK

In a tale that intertwines human curiosity with ecological caution, the story of Japanese Knotweed in the UK reads like a novel. It began in 1850, when Philip von Siebold, a German botanist with a passion for plants, introduced a strikingly robust specimen to the British Isles. Originating from Japan, the plant’s arrival was marked by admiration, its lush greenery and swift growth were seen as marvels of nature.

Knotweed’s journey from a prized ornamental plant to an invasive nemesis is a story of unintended consequences. Siebold, enchanted by its beauty, could not have predicted the ecological shadow it would cast across continents. Initially celebrated, Knotweed’s true nature was revealed only as it began to dominate landscapes, its roots entwining not just with the earth but with the fabric of British ecology.

The narrative that every Knotweed plant in the UK may trace its lineage to Siebold’s original specimen is a testament to its incredible ability to reproduce from even the smallest fragment. This botanical invader was initially welcomed with open arms, distributed widely for its aesthetic appeal. It found its way into gardens and beyond, with Kew Gardens playing a pivotal role in its spread, selling it to enthusiastic gardeners unaware of the impending ecological impact.

The rapid growth and resilience of Japanese Knotweed were underestimated until it was too late. Its spread across the UK, with a significant stronghold in Wales, underscores a critical lesson in the importation of non-native species. Today, it stands as a cautionary tale of how beauty can sometimes mask a threat to our natural world.

As we reflect on the journey of Japanese Knotweed, it serves as a reminder of the delicate balance within our ecosystems. The story of this invasive plant is not just history; it’s a living narrative that continues to evolve, challenging us to think carefully about our interactions with nature. In the unfolding saga of Japanese Knotweed, we find a deeper understanding of our environmental responsibilities and the unintended consequences that can arise from the simplest of actions.

 

 

What does Japanese knotweed look like ?

Key insights

Common Name: Japanese Knotweed

Latin Name: Reynoutria japonica (also known as Fallopia japonica and Polygonum cuspidatum)

Affected Areas: Thrives in waysides, garden beds, borders, and can disrupt paving.

Main Culprit: The plant spreads through its extensive underground root system.

Active Season: Visible from late spring to autumn. The best treatment period is during summer. Japanese Knotweed: A Fast-Growing Perennial Menace with a penchant for rapid growth, forms tall, dense clusters of annual stems. Each year, these stems rejuvenate from robust, deeply anchored rhizomes. These rhizomes, misleadingly similar to roots, are specialized stems that spread underground. They produce roots, stems adorned with leaves, and flowers like those seen in Anemone nemorosa, bamboo, canna, and border iris. Originally introduced to Britain as an ornamental addition to gardens, Japanese Knotweed has evolved into an invasive, non-native threat. We  delve into strategies for managing and controlling this formidable plant.

Spring Emergence

Spring heralds the arrival of Japanese Knotweed, as reddish-purple shoots break through the soil, originating from crimson-pink buds. Emerging small bud of Japanese Knotweed[/caption] These shoots quickly transform into dense, towering stands of bamboo-like canes by summer, reaching heights up to 2.1 meters (7 feet). The canes, notable for their purple speckles, sprout branches at various points along their length.

Leaf Characteristics: The plant boasts heart-shaped or shovel-shaped leaves, each measuring up to 14 cm (5½ inches) in length. Arranged alternately, the leaves create a distinctive zigzag pattern along the stems. Come winter, the stems retreat underground, leaving the dried canes standing for several months or more.

Floral Display: By late summer to early autumn, Japanese Knotweed is adorned with creamy-white flower tassels stretching up to 15 cm (6 inches) in length.

Identification Challenges: Distinguishing Japanese Knotweed can be tricky, as it resembles several other plants, including: Fallopia baldschuanica (Russian vine) Leycesteria formosa (Himalayan honeysuckle) Houttuynia cordata Persicaria microcephala (e.g., ‘Red Dragon’) While several Persicaria and Polygonum species can be problematic weeds, they do not match the invasiveness of Japanese Knotweed. Notably, a less aggressive variety, Reynoutria japonica var. compacta and its cultivars, is sometimes found in gardens. For accurate identification, refer to the GB Non-native Species Secretariat (NNSS) identification sheets, which include details on invasive species like Japanese Knotweed.

At the beginning of March Small pink buds appear from the old crown.

By April the buds have grown into small asparagus type stems, purple and green

By the end of May, the stems are at least 1meter high and are green in color with pink fleck

A close-up view of the Leaf shows that it is heart-shaped & flat where it joins the stem

Understanding the Issue with Japanese Knotweed

Despite rarely producing seeds, Japanese Knotweed can regrow from tiny fragments of its rhizomes. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, specifically under Schedule 9, makes it illegal to propagate Japanese Knotweed in natural settings. For incidents of illegal dumping, contact The Environment Agency directly via their toll-free line: 0800 807060.

The Persistent Spread of Japanese Knotweed in the UK: Understanding the Role of Rhizomes

Japanese Knotweed, an invasive species in the UK, spreads primarily through its rhizomes. This robust weed, known for its rapid growth, poses challenges for property owners and environmentalists alike. Below, we explore the main pathways through which Japanese Knotweed rhizomes spread across the country.

Fly-Tipping: A Catalyst for Spread

Fly-tipping, the illegal dumping of waste, significantly contributes to the spread of Japanese Knotweed. When contaminated green waste is discarded irresponsibly, it becomes a prime vector for dispersal, highlighting the need for proper waste management practices.

Animals: Unknowing Conduits

Animals, both wild and domestic, play a role in dispersing Japanese Knotweed. Movement across contaminated areas enables them to carry rhizome fragments to new locations, inadvertently facilitating its spread.

Waterways: Nature’s Conveyors

Waterways act as natural conveyor belts for Japanese Knotweed. Rhizome fragments, broken off during storms or flooding, travel downstream, colonizing riverbanks and beyond. This emphasizes the importance of monitoring and managing riverine environments.

Contaminated Soil: The Hidden Threat

The movement of contaminated soil, whether through construction activities or landscaping, poses a significant risk. Even small rhizome fragments in the soil can lead to new infestations, underlining the necessity of vigilant soil management.

Highways and Train Tracks: Pathways for Proliferation

Infrastructure development, including highways and train tracks, often leads to the unintentional spread of Japanese Knotweed. Construction activities disturb the soil, facilitating the dispersal of rhizomes along these transit routes.

Human Activity: The Double-Edged Sword

Human activity, encompassing gardening, construction, and site clearance, often unknowingly aids in spreading Japanese Knotweed. The movement of garden waste or construction materials can carry rhizomes to new sites, demonstrating the critical need for awareness and education.

The fight against the spread of Japanese Knotweed in the UK is multifaceted, involving careful management of waste, soil, and waterways, alongside vigilant monitoring of infrastructure development and public education. Understanding these pathways is crucial for controlling this invasive species and protecting our environment and property values.

Take time to look At the Environment Agency’s Website for more information regarding the regulations on Japanese knotweed

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 Legal Implications in Property Transactions

In property dealings since 2013, sellers must disclose the presence of Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) on their property. This requirement is part of the TA6 form, an essential document in the conveyancing process. While your conveyancer or solicitor will provide detailed legal counsel, it’s crucial to be aware of this stipulation.

For Sellers:

As a seller, you’re tasked with inspecting your garden for Japanese Knotweed, especially since it can become dormant in winter. The TA6 form requires you to declare if this invasive plant impacts your property. If it is, you must also present a professional eradication plan. (Refer to “Seeking Professional Help” below for guidance.)

For Buyers:

When buying, the seller’s responses on the TA6 form will indicate the presence of Japanese Knotweed. Mortgage lenders often demand proof of a planned eradication, typically requiring a professional plan with a transferable warranty. Generally, the seller provides this eradication plan before sale completion. Proactive Measures: Whether you are a buyer or seller, proactive inspection for Japanese Knotweed is advisable. Misidentification, nondisclosure, or absence of a management plan can lead to disputes, process delays, or additional costs. In worst-case scenarios, it could even result in a misrepresentation claim post-sale. Taking early steps to identify and manage Japanese Knotweed can prevent these issues.

New legislation

An amendment to the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 includes invasive non-native plants, including Japanese Knotweed. Here are some critical points for how this affects the homeowner: It is not illegal to have Japanese Knotweed in your garden. Still, you should aim to control this invasive, non-native plant on your property to prevent it from becoming a problem in your neighbourhood. If it has a “detrimental effect of a persistent or continuing nature on the quality of life of those in the locality”, legislation could enforce its control, and property owners may be prosecuted.

Where problems with Japanese Knotweed occur in neighbouring gardens, we suggest you speak or correspond directly with your neighbours (who may already be taking action to control this problematic weed). Before contacting your council to talk about action under the legislation, informal steps should be taken. However, a specialist professional company will be skilled at controlling and ensuring eradication and can dispose of the plant waste at licenced landfill sites.

In the UK,

knowingly spreading Japanese Knotweed can lead to serious consequences. This invasive plant is subject to strict regulations due to its significant impact on biodiversity, property, and infrastructure.

Legal Implications

Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it’s illegal to plant or cause Japanese Knotweed to grow in the wild. Violators may face legal action, fines, or even imprisonment. Property owners must manage and prevent the spread from their land to neighboring areas.

Financial Consequences

Spreading Japanese Knotweed can drastically affect property values. Sellers are legally required to disclose its presence, potentially hindering sales. Property owners may incur costs for professional removal services to mitigate the impact and comply with legal obligations.

Environmental Impact

Japanese Knotweed outcompetes native vegetation, leading to reduced biodiversity. Its spread can result in significant ecological damage, prompting restoration efforts to revive impacted ecosystems.

Infrastructure Damage

This plant’s aggressive growth can damage buildings, roads, and flood defenses. Infrastructure repairs can be costly, and affected parties may seek compensation from those responsible for its spread.

Community Relations

Knowingly spreading Japanese Knotweed can harm relationships within communities. It may lead to disputes or legal battles between neighbors or between property owners and local authorities.

 Strategies for Controlling Japanese Knotweed

 

Preventive Measures:

Please remember it’s not okay to dispose of Japanese Knotweed in the brown bin or any other household waste bin in the UK. Due to its invasive nature and the risk of spreading, Japanese Knotweed is classified as controlled waste under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Disposal requires careful handling and must be done at licensed landfill sites that accept such waste. Incorrect disposal can lead to environmental harm and legal consequences. It’s essential to seek professional advice for safely removing and disposing of Japanese Knotweed.

Chemical Use: 

Chemical interventions should be minimal and targeted, reserved for cases with a significant risk to the environment, heritage specimens, or native species.

Cultural Controls: Managing Japanese

Knotweed presents unique challenges. Removal without professional aid can lead to disposal issues, as it’s considered ‘controlled waste’ under environmental laws. Professional contractors must be certified waste carriers. On-site destruction through drying and burning is an option, but never mix it with household or green waste.

Weedkiller Application: Eradicating Japanese

Knotweed with weedkillers like glyphosate takes several seasons, though professionals might achieve faster results. It’s critical to follow product instructions for safe and effective use. For home gardeners, glyphosate-based solutions are advised for direct application on the plant. Subsequent regrowth requires attention and additional treatment by professionals

Considerations for Homeowners:

Using professional services for Japanese Knotweed eradication provides an insurance-backed guarantee, which might be crucial for property sales or legal disputes. When applying glyphosate, We will always avoid contact with non-target plants and ensure its use around woody plants is cautious, as it does not affect plants through soil absorption.

Our professional service specializes in Japanese knotweed management and provides comprehensive herbicide treatment solutions. For those concerned about mortgage implications, we deliver detailed risk assessments alongside proposed treatment strategies. Our offerings include a free ten-year insurance-backed guarantees, ensuring peace of mind for our clients.

As PCA Accredited Japanese Knotweed specialists, we are equipped with the expertise to facilitate your property’s smooth acquisition or disposition Trust in our credentials and experience for efficient and effective Japanese Knotweed control.

Ten interesting facts about Japanese Knotweed
  1. Japanese Knotweed originates from East Asia, specifically Japan, China, and Korea, where local fungi and insects naturally control it.
  2. Introduced to Europe in the 19th century as an ornamental plant, it quickly became known for its aggressive spread.
  3. This plant can grow up to 10 cm a day during its peak growth season in the summer.
  4. Its roots, or rhizomes, can extend up to 7 meters horizontally and 3 meters deep, making eradication efforts difficult.
  5. Japanese Knotweed can penetrate weak, cracked concrete, asphalt, and other hard surfaces, causing significant damage to buildings and infrastructure.
  6. Despite its invasive nature, Japanese Knotweed has culinary uses; its young shoots are edible and often compared to rhubarb.
  7. It’s a rich source of resveratrol, an antioxidant also found in grapes, which is believed to have various health benefits.
  8. The presence of Japanese Knotweed can decrease property values and affect the sale of properties due to the difficulty of removal.
  9. Eradicating Japanese Knotweed often requires a multifaceted approach, including chemical treatment, physical removal, and continuous monitoring.
  10. Innovative uses for Japanese Knotweed are being researched, including its potential as a biofuel and in the production of pharmaceuticals.
Our Approach to Japanese Knotweed Control

Many firms opt for excavation, seeing it as a profitable strategy. However, at Japanese Knotweed Plus Ltd, we consider excavation a final measure, unless development plans are in place. We predominantly adopt herbicide treatments. This aligns with both the Environment Agency and the Property Care Association’s guidance. We believe excavation poses risks of spreading Japanese knotweed, especially during transport to landfill sites.

Tiny rhizome fragments can regenerate into new plants, leading to unintentional spread through:

Machinery use, Hand tools, Clothing and footwear, Vehicles accessing the site and a lack of seriousness or understanding among workers about the implications of dispersal.

Our method prioritizes safety, environmental responsibility, and effectiveness, ensuring minimal risk of spreading this invasive species.