At the end of October, Amsterdam released 5,000 leaf fleas into the wild. Their hope: to eradicate Japanese knotweed in a natural and cost-effective manner.
So, is this the end of Japanese knotweed?
The Amsterdam infestation
For many years, Amsterdam has battled with Japanese knotweed infestations. Perhaps helped along by the city's watercourse, this invasive plant has damaged pavements, buildings and embankments.
Amsterdam council found themselves scratching their heads and out of options on how to eradicate this growing problem. Having spent a fortune on methods including fire, laser beams and every other eradication method available to them (all without success) - Amsterdam officials decided to lower the ban on introducing 'alien species' into the wild - and cue the leaf flea!
Why the leaf flea?
The leaf flea, or Japanese knotweed psyllid (aphalara itadori) is native to Japan. In their natural habitat, the leaf flea consumes the weed, sucking at its sap, thereby keeping it under control. So back in October 2020, Amsterdam released 5,000 leaf fleas into their fields to test this solution. The insects will hibernate over winter, and then are expected to awaken in springtime, hungry and ready to feast on the plentiful knotweed! This is a cost-effective solution, and kinder to nature too. Having tried so many eradication and control methods so unsuccessfully, Amsterdam are hoping that the leaf flea will be the answer to their Japanese knotweed problem.
Will the UK follow Amsterdam?
Like Amsterdam, the UK is plagued with Japanese knotweed. This invasive plant is damaging gardens and causing hazards. Worse still, its presence can reduce property value by up to 20%. So, can the UK expect to see this miracle flea within its borders? Sadly not At least not yet. DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) are undergoing research into the leaf flea's biology. Their 'extensive research' should determine if introducing this 'alien species' into our wild is the best step forward! After all, if this pesky insect can eat through Japanese knotweed, what else will it eradicate?
Watch this space!
Watch this space for future leaf-flea updates. Will it be the next best Japanese knotweed solution? Only time will tell!
In the meantime, contact the friendly team at TCM to discuss your Japanese knotweed or other invasive weed infestation.
