Japanese Knotweed
Japanese Knotweed.
The Problem.
Anyone who has attempted to control the spread of Japanese Knotweed in their garden can likely testify to the antagonist nature of this intruder. The removal of Japanese Knotweed can be extremely problematic should you be unaware of the options available.
It is essential that a competent and qualified person carries out the herbicide treatment. Applicators should have the appropriate National Proficiency Tests Council Certification. Certain herbicides can only be used in or near water, and approval must be attained from the Environment Agency before application.
The effective time to apply glyphosate is from July to September (or before foliage discolours). It is possible to treat in spring though this is typically less effective. Certain Herbicides can be used throughout the growing season though these tend to be classified as Persistent Herbicides which may not be appropriate depending on the client's requirements and the final specification of the contract. Treatment of the plant during flowering should be avoided to protect pollinating insects such as bees. Winter treatment is generally ineffective with all but persistent soil treatments herbicides as the plant will be dormant and not take up the treatment.
It is should be highlighted that in the case of Herbicidal Treatment of Japanese Knotweed it is to be expected that treatment and associated works will be required to be carried out over a period of at least three years before the Japanese Knotweed stops growing back.
It must be highlighted that in all cases the visible plants must be extremely carefully removed and disposed of appropriately either on site or off whilst complying with all necessary legislation after treatment as any part of the plant around the size of a pea or greater is viable for growth.
It is important that you do not take a lack of visible re-growth as evidence that the Japanese knotweed is no longer viable as by disrupting the rhizome by digging or excavating the soil is likely to result in substantial re-growth as the Japanese Knotweed rhizomes can remain dormant for years.
Course of action available:
Miller Preservation offer a number of ways to deal with Japanese Knotweed.
- Excavation, Separation & Removal
- On-site burial
- In-Situ cell
- Reduced Dig and Herbicide Programme
- Herbicidal Treatment
Each of the above methodologies has different merits and which method is chosen would depend on a number of factors from considerations due to the site, budget and timescale.
Get in Touch
When you need Japanese Knotweed Control in Scotland, please don't hesitate to contact the friendly, knowledgeable team here at Miller (Preservation) Ltd on 01475 726925. Alternatively, email us via the form on our contact page or direct on info@millerpreservation.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you!