Recent research indicates that the physical damage caused by Japanese knotweed is no greater than that of other disruptive plants such as Bamboo and Buddleia and trees. However, as experts on the ground we know how serious knotweed can be when it comes to protecting the integrity of property or building structures - including underground infrastructure.
Take a look at some of the examples shown here.
Forcing boundary structures
The forceful nature of Japanese knotweed means its vigorous growth (if left unchecked) can create a huge canopy of thick stems and dense foliage. Even concrete walls can be pushed out and would eventually weaken to the point of collapse.
It’s amazing also to see how virile the knotweed plant is - even flowering whilst growing through a crack in a wall. Knotweed is a bit like having a water leak - it'll come through the tiniest of spaces and where you least expect it.
Breaking into property
As already mentioned, knotweed will take advantage of any weak areas to grow through. Knotweed roots can penetrate the foundations of property and can grow along any route available such as behind a skirting board or beneath floorboards. The problem then is tracing it back to the root source (the rhizome system) to ensure that every fragment is removed, if not it will just pop up in another part of the house!
Growing wherever it can
If proof was needed as to knotweed's ability to grow through the smallest of space - take a look at the knotweed stems growing through a car. Clear evidence that if neglected, the incredibly resilient knotweed plant will take over pretty much anywhere!
An unexpected (and unwanted) guest on new build developments
New housing developments are at particular risk of having knotweed as an unwanted arrival after properties have been purchased. No new homeowner wants to see knotweed spring up just after they move in. But unless a pre-planning survey is carried out by the landowner or property developer, knotweed can often be missed, especially in winter when knotweed lies hidden underground. The repercussions of this scenario are massive - with property being devalued or loss of sales for the developer.
Why is knotweed such a threat?
Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is notorious for its invasive nature and aggressive growth patterns. Unlike many other non-rhizomatous plant species, its extensive root system can penetrate through vulnerable foundations, cracks in walls, and infrastructure, causing the sort of damage shown above.
Tiny fragments of this plant no bigger than a thumb nail will establish as new plants, making it hard to control without professional services. Knotweed also poses a threat environmentally, depleting our native flora and disrupting local ecosystems.
Is it worse than Bamboo?
Bamboo can be compared to knotweed for its invasive growth pattern, underground rhizome system and difficulty in removing, but, as experts in the industry we know that Japanese knotweed presents unique challenges due to its resilience and ability to thrive in most climates and environments.
Eradicating knotweed once established is particularly difficult, and the associated costs and legal implications underscore its severe impact on property values and the surrounding environment. Understanding these distinct characteristics is crucial for implementing effective management strategies and minimising its damaging effects on properties and natural habitats.
What can be done?
The simple answer is to deter knotweed growth from the start. This means having a survey carried out by a professional knotweed removal contractor if land or property is planned for either development or sale. For homeowners thinking of selling up it is a legal requirement to declare whether knotweed is present, failure to do so could result in legal implications. Landowners or property developers should ensure the site is free of knotweed and any other invasive plants prior to either purchase or planning stage. Avoiding risk starts with a knotweed survey! Contact Japanese Knotweed Ltd.
