Japanese knotweed can spread easily due to flooding, and with each passing year, the chances of flooding in the UK become more and more likely. In fact, in 2019, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said riverbanks should be checked after heavy rain. So, if you are a land or homeowner, here’s what you need to know.
How flooding spreads Japanese knotweed
As you may know, Japanese knotweed is made up of several parts. These include bamboo-like stems, leaves and vines - that's the visible part. However, most of the plant lies below ground. And that's where the main problem lies - Knotweed's rhizome really is the root of the problem.
When flooding occurs and land shifts, fragments of the rhizome are taken away by the water. Once these fragments settle, a new infestation begins.
Those living close to water are at greater risk
We are all affected by the rain but sadly, those living near rivers, lakes and even garden ponds are significantly more at risk from Japanese knotweed infestations.
In 2019, several nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries across the country were affected by floods. In the spring, they found Japanese knotweed had taken root.
So, be on the look-out for Japanese knotweed. If you spot it on your land after flooding, you should take immediate action. The sooner it’s removed, the better.
It's not just knotweed
As if Japanese knotweed spreading isn’t enough, other non-native species can also cause havoc. These include Himalayan Balsam and Giant Hogweed.
Although knotweed is the most common, it’s good to know about other invasive plants. Head to our information pages to find out more about Himalayan Balsam and Giant Hogweed.
Knotweed is harder to spot in winter
In the spring and summer, Japanese knotweed is a luscious green colour, with bold leaves that are easy to spot, as well as pretty dainty white flowers.
Unfortunately, knotweed is harder to identify in the colder months. The stems are brown and the plant can look dead. For more photo gallery and other plant details, visit our identification guide.
We're helping the spread
It's helpful to identify Japanese knotweed on your land as many people don't even realise it's a problem plant and try to remove it themselves. However, removing Japanese knotweed the 'wrong way' only further spreads the plant.
Even worse, many remove this seemingly innocent weed and put it in their green waste bin. In this environment the knotweed has another place to infest. When floods come and knock our waste bins over, Japanese knotweed has yet another opportunity to spread as it is carried away by water.
You should never ever try to remove Japanese knotweed yourself. In fact, it’s illegal to dispose of it in your green waste bin. If you are found spreading knotweed into the wild, you could face £5000 fines or even prison.
Don't risk it - hire a professional
Don’t treat knotweed yourself, because when floods come you could be responsible for letting Japanese knotweed spread across the country.
If you are concerned about flooding and Japanese knotweed on your property, speak to us today.
