Japanese knotweed is a weed that is becoming more and more common in the United Kingdom and the United States. It can be very difficult to get rid of, and it’s important to know if it’s dangerous.
Japanese knotweed can grow up to 10 feet tall and spread quickly. It can damage foundations, walls, and even septic systems.
Is Japanese knotweed dangerous? The answer is yes. If you see this weed on your property, it’s important to take action right away to get rid of it.
What is Japanese knotweed and where does it grow?
Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is a fast-growing, herbaceous perennial that can reach heights of up to 3 meters (10 feet).native to Asia, the plant was first introduced to Europe in the 19th century as an ornamental garden plant.
Today, it is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world. Japanese knotweed grows rapidly, spreading through both underground rhizomes and above-ground stems (or “stolons”).
The potential of the plant to develop enormous monocultures is even more astounding when you consider that only the female plant was imported to the UK, which means it cannot produce viable seedlings. As a result, cuttings are the only way for it to spread vegetatively.
This means it spreads by rhizome (root) growth or when soil containing rhizome pieces is transferred from one place to another, mainly due to human intervention (often fly-tipping), but it can also happen naturally during floods.
The plant is extremely difficult to control once established, and can quickly crowd out native vegetation. In addition, its deep roots can damage sewer lines, paving, and foundations. Japanese knotweed is most commonly found in riparian areas (areas near waterways), but can also spread into open spaces such as fields, parks, and roadsides.
The best way to prevent the spread of this invasive species is to remove any small infestations before they have a chance to take hold.
What are the dangers of Japanese knotweed and what effects can it have on people and property values?
Today, Japanese knotweed is considered one of the most invasive plant species in the world, and it has caused significant damage to both natural ecosystems and man-made structures. The plant grows rapidly and aggressively, and it can quickly overwhelm other plants, including native species.
In addition, the plant’s roots can grow up to three metres in length, making it difficult to remove once it has become established. The roots can also damage concrete foundations and asphalt driveways. As a result, Japanese knotweed can have a significant negative impact on property values.
How much will removal cost, and is it worth doing yourself or hiring a professional company to take care of it for you?
As anyone who has ever dealt with a knotweed problem knows, removal can be a difficult and time-consuming process. The cost to remove Japanese knotweed will depend on the area and volume of infestation. Click here to acquire a better idea of the removal cost.
Hiring a professional company to take care of the removal for you is usually the best option, as they will have the experience and equipment necessary to get the job done quickly and effectively. However, if you are on a tight budget, doing it yourself is certainly an option. Just be prepared for a lot of hard work.
In conclusion
Japanese knotweed is also a major concern in the built environment, both at commercial sites and at residential premises where new development is taking place.
While reports of Japanese knotweed bursting through concrete are exaggerated, it is the potential of exacerbating structural problems in buildings, services, and walls by growing through existing flaws, holes, and fractures. The problem, on the other hand, is not uncontrolled. Japanese knotweed is actually pretty treatable with the correct treatment approach.
Whether you own land where knotweed is growing or want to buy a property where knotweed is present, spending time understanding the risks and seeking guidance from specialists is critical.
Want to know more about whether Japanese knotweed is dangerous or not?
Knotweed Removal aims to provide the most up-to-date information, help, and advice for YOU to make informed decisions. If you are unsure or uncertain about how to proceed, please reach out to us and we will gladly come back and advise you as best we can.
Governmental advice can be found here and the UK law covering the removal of Japanese Knotweed as stated under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 can be found here.
The best means to contact us is via our email – hello@knotweedremoval.tips
Do not forget we have a library of blogs covering many areas relevant to Japanese Knotweed, our free downloadable How-to Guides, and Product Reviews on the latest methods being employed to eradicate or remove Japanese Knotweed.
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