Japanese Knotweed Reigate

INVASIVE WEED CONTROL – Reigate

Japanese knotweed Fallopia japonica was introduced into the UK during the mid-nineteenth century as an ornamental plant. It has since become one of the most problematic invasive weeds in Europe. Japanese knotweed is a perennial weed, producing tall canes, up to 3m (10 feet) in height during the summer. The canes have characteristic purple flecks, and produce branches from nodes along its length. These branches support shovel-shaped leaves and clusters of white flowers in autumn. The canes die off in winter, turning brown and shedding their leaves. This produces dense mulch that precludes the growth of native plants.

Japanese knotweed canes grow from dense crowns that also produce extensive underground stems, called rhizomes. These rhizomes also produce fine, white, hair-like roots. It is hard to state with certainty the likely extent of rhizome spread from the parent plant. Research has shown that rhizome can grow a distance of at least 7m (23 feet) and achieve a depth of at least 2m (6 feet) from the parent crown. However, the actual extent of the rhizome can vary considerably depending on the soil type and the history of the site. Many knotweed infestations start life as a result of fly-tipped waste, and repeated applications of waste on top of the initial infestation can result in a deep matrix of rhizome.

Several other invasive plants or weeds can cause a major problem to your home or business in Reigate. Japanese knotweed is a common problem in Reigate and it requires immediate specialist treatment to control it effectively.

Contact us on 01737 668603 or 07772541778 for advice on effective control measures.