As you may be aware from our previous posts, Japanese Knotweed is strong enough to damage foundations and structures to a level that will reduce the value of your land and property. So what are Japanese Knotweed Do’s and Don’ts?
This aggressive invasive weed can generate its monoculture by forcing out native species, which makes its treatment something that needs an expert hand in dealing with. There are a lot of do’s and don’t do’s when it comes to handling Japanese Knotweed growth. If you believe you have a sizable infestation of the plant, these are the steps you need to take.
Do’s
If you suspect you have uncovered a Japanese Knotweed infestation, you immediately consult with an expert in Japanese Knotweed eradication in Manchester. This kind of specialist will fully understand the warning signs and severity of a knotweed invasion and be able to uncover the options available and the risk level surrounding the infestation.
You must understand that a knotweed infestation will not prevent the selling of your home or further development around your land. That is if you have it treated professionally. You will need to look into your legal responsibilities surrounding Japanese knotweed so that, should it spread to neighbouring property, you can protect yourself from prosecution.
Most of all, you need to act quickly and not leave it unattended. You will need to consult with an accredited knotweed removal Manchester professional and not one of the many businesses that crop up overnight. Ask to see professional credentials and understand how long these services have been working with knotweed infestations.
Don’t!
First of all, never attempt to treat the knotweed by yourself. That can cause the infestation to spread further and become more costly. Refrain from mowing or strimming as it will spread the infestation with fresh shoots from the trimmings.
Japanese Knotweed pieces are classed as controlled waste and need to be disposed of by a licensed waste carrier. Do not attempt to dig up the knotweed as that significantly increases the stem density to the point where even a fragment of rhizome can regenerate.
The contaminated soil has to be contained in one place and not spread around. Any soil within 7m of knotweed has the potential to house rhizomes. That is also why you keep knotweed away from any compost in your garden. Don’t take knotweed to a local recycling centre with other garden waste, as it will contaminate the site and make you liable for prosecution. You should also not dump any knotweed in the countryside because, as with any dumping of the material, you will be found guilty of an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981.
Contact the expert team at S4JK today for a list of Japanese Knotweed Do’s and Don’ts!
