It's shocking to think a mere weed can cause costly damage to bricks and mortar, tarmac, and even your toilet! Suffice to say, Japanese knotweed is a pain in the er... bog! Unfortunately no amount of bleach will eradicate this invader of both residential and commercial property and land.
The dangers of Japanese knotweed
Japanese Knotweed (also known as Japanese bamboo) is a nuisance plant, but it is not poisonous. That being said, its presence on your land can have dangerous consequences. For example, it can reduce the structural stability of your home or commercial property. Having Japanese Knotweed growing in your toilet may look like a thorny curse from a Disney movie, but the reality is anything but funny or fictional.
How do you get rid of Japanese knotweed?
To avoid the risk of legal action or asset loss, this 'intruder' needs to be eradicated from your land, and toilet! Although many people try DIY Japanese knotweed treatments that they've found following a search on the internet, due to its highly invasive nature the best option for getting rid of Japanese knotweed, and to ensure permanent eradication is to hire a Japanese Knotweed removal specialist.
Total eradication is a challenge, so here are some things to consider:
- Since the plant spreads quickly, any attempt to trim or remove it may cause fragments to spread even further afield, thereby causing a greater problem.
- Weedkiller will not kill this plant - even though it may appear so. A large portion of the plant (the rhizome, root) lies underground - this is unlikely to be affected by any over-the-counter weed killer.
- Disposing of Japanese knotweed is a real bind. It has to be removed safely, without infecting areas en route from the plant site to the licensed landfill. If you fail to comply, you could face legal action!
Insurance Policies - are you covered?
In addition to causing structural damage and the resulting financial ramifications of this, just imagine the heartache and concern that home and land owners feel when they discover their property insurance policy does not cover them for Japanese knotweed treatment, removal, or for property damage caused by the plant. This is standard for most insurance providers - read the fine print in your home owner insurance policy! That's why we offer our Insurance backed guarantee for work performed by the TCM Knotweed removal team - giving you peace of mind for the long term!
In conclusion
So though not dangerous, an infestation of Japanese knotweed can cause damages that leave many home and land owners concerned. But don't fret, Dr Knotweed and the TCM team are here to offer guidance and expertise to deal with invasive weed problems throughout the UK. Get in touch today to discuss your knotweed removal options.
Next week we'll be digging deeper into Japanese knotweed treatment solutions.
