Simple Yet Effective Ways to Remove Japanese Knotweed

There are many plants brought to Europe from different parts of the world either for research or ornamental purposes but there is one plant that led to the devaluing of countless homes in the UK. This plant is called Japanese knotweed.

It may sound exotic and harmless but to those who have this plant present in their gardens, it can be a big burden. The main characteristic of the plant is its incredible growth rate. With this, it is considered a monster plant, which is capable of devouring any property if left unattended.

How do you know if you have Japanese knotweed in your garden? Well, it starts to grow from early spring. It can reach 1.5 meters by May and come June, it will grow up to 3 meters. The good news is it dies sometime between September and November.

It is crucial that you know the signs of having this knotweed in your garden. You should look out for fleshly red tinged shoots. When it grows, it has this large and heart or spade-shaped leaf. It is also characterised by a hollow stem similar to bamboo. It has also clusters of cream flowers, which attract the bees.

If you are wondering how to remove japanese knotweed, here are some methods worth considering:

By smothering

The first thing that you can try is to smother the knotweed. You can do this with the help of tarps. Keep in mind that covering the knotweed with tarps in spring will suppress its growth. It is critical that you do this at the beginning of spring season so it will give you an early advantage.

It is time that you invest in poly tarps. The tarps should be large enough to cover the patch of weed. Before you smother, you need to prepare the area by cutting the old canes. Do not forget to remove the loose material so it will not puncture the tarp. Your goal here is not to allow the sunlight to penetrate. If possible, you need to overlap the tarps.

By using herbicide

Another tactic is using herbicide. You have to be careful handling herbicide because it is a chemical. Herbicides are typically mixed with water and applied to the leaves using a garden sprayer. Aside from spraying, you can try injecting the herbicide into the canes. The best time to use herbicide is in late summer or early fall. If you do not want to personally deal with it, you can call experts or professionals.

By cutting and digging

You have to remember that knotweed can only be suppressed not eradicated. You can consider cutting it back in the summer. Do not forget to pick the cuttings and bag them. After cutting, you should dig into the ground where the shoots came. In these areas, you will see clumps.

You have to dig the clumps and bag them for disposal. You should ensure that the roots would not snap off. Remember that even the tiniest clump left on the ground will eventually sprout. When it comes to removing Japanese knotweed, it is a long-term war.

Final words

There are other ways that you can do to remove this tenacious plant.  Whatever methods you consider, you should not be complacent. If you need professional help, you should call immediately because these plants grow quickly.