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What should I do if I find Japanese knotweed in my gardenĀ 

It is important to take action to control its growth; hereĀ are some steps you can take:

  1. Identify the plant: Make sure that you have positively identified the plant as Japanese knotweed. Knowing what you are dealing with before taking action is essential.
  2. Contain the plant: Japanese knotweed can spread rapidly, so it is essential to contain it as soon as possible. This may involve installing a physical barrier, such as a root barrier, around the perimeter of the infestation.
  3. Contact a professional: Japanese knotweed can be difficult to control and eradicate, so it is recommended that you contact a professional for help. Look for a company member of the Property Care Association (PCA) or the Invasive Non-Native Specialists Association (INNSA).
  4. Follow the treatment plan: Once you have a treatment plan in place, follow it as closely as possible. This may involve applying herbicides, digging the roots, or introducing biological control agents.
  5. Monitor the progress: Monitor the infestation to ensure that the treatment is working and that the plant is not regrowing.
  6. Dispose of the plant properly: Proper disposal is essential to avoid spreading the plant to other areas. The plant should be double-bagged, sealed, labeled as Japanese knotweed, and not composted.

Japanese knotweed is not a protected species in the UK.

Japanese knotweed is considered an invasive non-native species and is listed by the UK government as one of the country’s most invasive species. Its presence can have a significant negative impact on native ecosystems and damage buildings and infrastructure. The UK government encourages the control and removal of Japanese knotweed from the wild, enacting several pieces of legislation.

  1. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. (As amended) makes it an offence to plant or otherwise cause to grow Japanese knotweed in the wild.
  2. The Environmental Protection Act 1990. (As amended) makes it an offence to knowingly deposit, dispose of, or knowingly cause or knowingly permit the deposit or disposal of controlled waste. Mainly if it consists of or includes Japanese knotweed in or on any land except by the waste management license.
  3. The Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime, and Policing Act 2014. It gives local authorities, including the police, the power to take action. Owners or occupiers of land where Japanese knotweed is causing a nuisance or causing harm to the broader community.

The Highways Act 1980,

gives local authorities the power to remove any vegetation causing danger or obstruction on a highway, including Japanese knotweed. What should I do if I find Japanese knotweed in my garden?

An individual can receive an ASBO (Anti-Social Behaviour Order)

From the local council for not dealing with Japanese knotweed that has spread into a neighbour’s garden. Under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. This act gives local authorities power. To take action against the owners or occupiers of land where Japanese knotweed is causing a nuisance or causing harm to the broader community.

An ASBO is a court order that can be imposed.

On an individual or organisation that has engaged in anti-social behaviour. If an individual fails to comply with the terms of an ASBO, they can be held in contempt of court and face a fine or imprisonment.

Moreover, it’s important to note that while it is not illegal to have Japanese knotweed on your property if it is causing damage to a neighbouring property or causing a nuisance to the community, you can be ordered to take action to remove it and can be held liable for any damage caused. It’s always best to consult with an expert and take action. Control and remove the invasive plant before it causes problems for your neighbours and the community.

If you need further advice regarding Japanese knotweed, call Stephen on 07753682333