Japanese knotweed is one of the most destructive invasive plants, its roots can sprout in cracks and crevices to invade new areas. It has been known to cause structural damage to buildings, roads and pavements as well as smothering native vegetation. It is very hardy, growing in dense stands and reaching incredible heights, and it is extremely difficult to remove. It can even grow through concrete, asphalt and other hard surfaces, making it a serious problem in some urban areas. Getting rid of it requires a multi-prong approach, combining cutting and chemical controls. The first step is to find a safe and effective way to cut it. Afterwards, a powerful herbicide is required to kill the underground rhizomes and stop the plant from coming back.
Many gardeners, landscapers and homeowners choose to use a glyphosate concentrate. This is a very powerful herbicide that can be used to treat knotweed, but it’s important to follow the product’s instructions carefully to ensure the best results and minimize risk to pets, children and other plants. It can take multiple applications, over a period of up to four seasons, to completely eradicate knotweed.
Glyphosate can be very damaging to native plants, so if you decide to use it, make sure to protect yourself and any other vegitation in the area with a body suit, face mask and gloves. It’s also a good idea to wear long clothing, and work in a sunny location so the herbicide can fully soak into the plants and soil.
A regular and consistent treatment of japanese knotweed solutions using a combination of methods will slowly deplete the rhizomes of energy, making it more difficult for them to send up new shoots. This can take a lot of time and effort, but if you’re willing to commit to the long haul, you can finally win the war on this pesky weed.
If you are removing knotweed by hand, it’s vital to wear gloves, face mask and body suit, as the rhizomes can easily sprout in the gaps where you’ve pulled the main stems from the ground. It’s also a good idea not to put the chopped up rhizomes in your compost heap, as they can return and spread. If you’re unsure where to dispose of them, some local authorities will accept them at landfill sites as controlled waste.
If you’re worried about the impact of japanese knotweed on your property, you can have a professional firm come in to carry out a glyphosate spray treatment plan. This will be far more effective than the DIY method, and they will be able to offer an insurance backed guarantee that will be trusted by mortgage lenders and potential buyers. They will be able to provide site surveys, costed options of eradication and herbicide treatment plans. JKSL is a PCA accredited company with extensive experience in the field of Japanese knotweed eradication. To find out more about their services, visit their website or give them a call.