How To Eradicate Knotweed From Your Garden

How To Eradicate Knotweed From Your Garden

September 4, 2018 Off By Nound1973

Japanese knotweed is regarded today as a greatest danger to property also the wellbeing of structures, streets, extensions, pipelines and different arrangements. The healthy, strong roots can infiltrate shake, soil, concrete, building companies, landing area and waste/sewerage frameworks, causing basic harm that debilitates them which at last prompts their crumble.

When it comes to Japanese knotweed identification, the roots and rhizomes can grow as deep as nine meters into the soil, remain dormant for up to twenty years and withstand extreme freezing temperatures. Each centimetre of the root can put out one plant every 10 days and stems can grow up to four inches per day. Their lush green foliage chokes native plant species, posing a huge threat to landscaping, gardens, golf courses and parks. In winter, the plant sheds its leaves, which clog up drains and channels.

Apart from this, the other hazards of Knotweed are a danger to the property through the spread of its huge underground root system. They can creep through underground drainage, crossing all solid barriers and choke the pipelines, grow through pavements and walls and make buildings dangerous for human beings and animals. One of the issues with Knotweed in the UK is that unlike the small-sized original plant which was introduced as an ornamental plant in the 19th century, it has now mutated into a massively large species.

The indigenous pests and plants that naturally control its growth and spread in Japan are not present here, so it grows unchecked, leading to the destruction of native plants and insects. In many cases, homeowners have had to experience what almost resembles a horror movie, with an indestructible alien overwhelming their homes and lives. Fears of being sued by neighbours whose property can be similarly invaded can make their lives miserable. They can also be held legally responsible for allowing the plant to spread causing damage to public property like roads, water supply, drainage systems, and buildings. Clogging of waterways can also cause floods.

Eradication by conventional methods is almost impossible, as the roots are often too deep to remove. Herbicides may not always be effective and they’re also hazardous to other plants in large quantities, and treatment can be long-drawn-out and highly expensive. Many home-owners who have left it too late for Japanese knotweed identification and removal have been advised to demolish their homes as the only viable solution, as it can take up to three years of consistent herbicide spraying, rhizome-destruction and sanitizing of surrounding areas to clear the area of infestation.

Methods like root cell-burial, deep excavation and putting in root barriers can be effective but expensive. Ultimately, dealing with such invasive weeds is a matter of staying vigilant and knowing exactly what grows in your garden and in the neighbourhood and taking early steps to eradicate it before it invades the locality.

Spread the love