getting a mortgage with Japanese knotweed - a house fully infested with this invasive plant

Getting a Mortgage with Japanese Knotweed: All there is to Know

By | Japanese Knotweed | No Comments

You might have heard horror stories about Japanese knotweed causing severe damage to properties across the UK, making selling them rather difficult. No wonder Japanese knotweed infestations have caused mortgage lenders to take a cautious approach when it comes to dealing with properties that are affected by this pesky plant.

Before understanding the extent to which Japanese knotweed affects mortgages and the extra measures to take before obtaining a mortgage with Japanese knotweed, let’s check out what it is and how it is a problem.

What is Japanese knotweed?

Japanese knotweed is a tall herbaceous perennial plant with big shovel-shaped green leaves, white flowers, and bamboo-looking stems. As it grows really fast in almost all types of soil, it quickly spreads while growing from the underground roots (also known as rhizomes). It is extremely difficult to get rid of these rhizomes as a new plant may quickly sprout from even a tiny fragment that’s left in the soil.

How does it affect your chances of getting a mortgage?

Japanese knotweed spreads so fast that it can overtake the garden on a property in no time, ruining them completely by strangling all other plants. The roots of this dangerous plant block the drains which can even damage the foundation if left untreated. As all this damage caused by knotweed is likely to affect a property’s value, getting a mortgage with Japanese knotweed isn’t easy. The worst is when you think you have successfully killed it off; it may be laying dormant ready to sprout again.

Knotweed has been singled out by the government and also the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors as an invasive plant, which if allowed to grow unchallenged, may increase pre-existing structural damage to properties, and disrupt paving and tarmac surfaces.

How do mortgage lenders access Japanese knotweed’s risk?

Most mortgage lenders access the risk of knotweed based on the four categories listed below:
– The plant is on a neighbouring property which is over seven metres away from the actual property’s boundary.
– The plant is on a neighbouring property within seven metres of the actual property’s boundary.
– The plant is within a property’s boundary but is over seven metres away from a residential property.
– The plant is within seven metres of a property and causes serious damage to the outbuildings, boundary walls, paths, and drains. This will need immediate treatment from an expert.

How can you get a mortgage with Japanese knotweed?

Lately, many lenders across the UK have relaxed their policies concerning Japanese knotweed, though you may still find some who refuse to lend unless you prove that the infestation has been professionally treated. So, your first step to obtaining a mortgage with Japanese knotweed is to have a knotweed treatment plan in place.

In order to evaluate the property, lenders want a survey to be conducted that allows them to find out the extent to which the plant can damage your property, along with other potential risks. Depending on how severe the infestation is, the lender could charge you a higher rate of interest to compensate for the perceived threat to the plant. You may also be asked to make a higher deposit for the mortgage. So, be prepared for what’s ahead.

Thank you for reading our blog. If you are looking to get a mortgage with Japanese knotweed, make sure to get in touch with us at CYB Environmental. As experts, our management plan and 10-year insurance-backed guarantee will ensure that lenders reverse their initial refusal to lend. Call us on 020 3005 8755 or fill out our contact form today!

how-to-identify-the-early-signs-of-japanese-knotweed

How to Identify the Early Signs of Japanese Knotweed

By | CYB Japanese Knotweed Removal & Management Blog | No Comments

Like any kind of plant, Japanese knotweed has early signs of growth that allow you to identify the weed before it grows out of control. Japanese knotweed has been known to grow through walls, concrete and even tarmac, damaging the infrastructure of many homes across the UK. For this reason, it’s vital to identify Japanese knotweed in its early stages.

Here’s how you can stop Japanese knotweed in its tracks by looking out for key signs of growth.

Heart-shaped leaves

One of Japanese knotweed’s most prominent features is the heart-shaped (or shovel-shaped) leaves that dominate the plant. They are a vibrant green and can grow up to 20cm long, so aren’t hard to spot. The leaves will be staggered on the stem rather than clustered, giving them more opportunity to soak up sunlight, but will be curled up and dark in colour when the shoots first emerge.

Red shoots appearing

Once Japanese knotweed starts growing, you should be able to identify new red/purple shoots that are often compared to asparagus. These shoots can grow up to 10ft tall and will quickly develop into dense areas of bamboo-like stems during the spring. If you believe you have Japanese knotweed growing on your property and you attempt to cut these shoots down, you should notice a hollow interior. If the interior is solid, it’s likely the plant isn’t Japanese knotweed.

Buds form in early spring

Japanese knotweed growth occurs mainly between April and October, so you will see the appearance of flower buds from early spring onwards. Japanese knotweed buds are round in shape and tend to bloom between late summer and early autumn. The resulting flowers develop in small clusters and are cream/white in colour, creating thick foliage around the leaves and stems.

Quick growth

As one of the fastest-growing weeds in the UK, it’s been reported that Japanese knotweed has grown up to 10cm a day in the height of summer. If you’ve noticed a plant quickly spreading across your garden and even infiltrating other properties, then chances are you’re dealing with Japanese knotweed. The rapid root growth also increases its external appearance, with the plant reaching heights of up to 3 metres in 6 weeks.

Identifying Japanese knotweed with CYB

If you believe you’ve found Japanese knotweed on your property, you can contact CYB Environmental. We offer a free and quick identification that can help you confirm the presence of this weed, even in its early stages, before discussing removal. Currently, our Japanese knotweed solutions include:

– Chemical control
– Excavation of the roots
– On-site burial

We’ll inform you of the best removal method for your situation, helping to control the plant and remove Japanese knotweed from your property. Our services extend to customers across the UK, especially to those in Japanese knotweed hotspots. If you require Japanese knotweed removal don’t hesitate to get in touch with CYB Environmental, as failing to deal with this plant could lead to criminal charges.

Read more about the implications of leaving Japanese knotweed to grow in our blog and find out why it’s best to deal with Japanese knotweed as soon as possible.

How-does-japanese-knotweed-spread

How does Japanese Knotweed spread?

By | CYB Japanese Knotweed Removal & Management Blog | No Comments

What is Japanese knotweed?

Japanese Knotweed, also known as Fallopia Japonica is a weed that has the potential to grow up to 20cm per day, causing devastating environmental problems. Not only this, but it can also ruin houses by destroying the exterior walls that surround the property. This can have devastating impacts on the value of the property and make it hard for buyers to get a mortgage. Japanese Knotweed was first brought into the UK in 1850- before it was known how damaging the plant can be and how rapidly it grows.

How does Japanese Knotweed spread?

It is rare that Japanese Knotweed produces seeds, but it does happen on occasion. You might be left wondering how the weed spreads so rapidly! Instead, Japanese Knotweed spreads through the nodes of green stem – water and soil is the perfect environment for the weed to grow! The dispersal of the rhizome fragments, stems and crowns make it easy for this plant to thrive under the UK’s climate. Despite being a huge problem in the UK, the weed isn’t as invasive in Japan as it propagates in a different manner. Taking the weed out of its natural habitat in 1850 was a big mistake as instead of spreading seeds like in Japan, it has learned to survive and spread through roots, stems and crowns.

Each of these infestive plants in the UK is supported by an underground system filled with stems, crowns and rhizomes which spread and send shoots to the surface. It doesn’t take much for a whole plant to grow like the weed can form a fully grown plant from a single rhizome as small as 10mm. This is why it is so important to dispose of Japanese Knotweed correctly, as it can so easily contaminate the ground by dumping it.

Where does Japanese Knotweed come from?

This weed does not simply just appear from nowhere. If you have spotted Japanese Knotweed on your premises, you can expect to find it in the surrounding areas. Try asking your neighbours if they have it in their garden, or have a look around your property to see if you can spot where the Japanese Knotweed is coming from. If you can not identify Japanese Knotweed nearby, there is a possibility that contaminated soil was dumped on your land, which could have been transferred via foot or on a car.

Can animals spread Japanese Knotweed?

Certain animals are able to spread Japanese Knotweed through their droppings. These animals include sheep, cattle and goats. It is unlikely that rhizome fragments will be the cause of new growth via droppings, however, their droppings could contain stems or canes. These can indeed survive the pass through the animals digestive system and form new growth when positioned back into the soil.

Where in the UK is contaminated?

It is to the point now where there are only a few places that the Japanese Knotweed hasn’t spread. A government-approved scheme has now been put into place to track the spread of the weed. The most contaminated areas are London, Birmingham, Leicester, Nottingham, Sheffield, Bristol, Cardiff, Swansea, Plymouth, Southampton, Brighton, Blackpool, Manchester, Leeds, York, Peterborough, Northampton, Southampton, Brighton and Newcastle.

How fast does Japanese Knotweed spread?

During the summer, Japanese Knotweed has been known to spread as much as 20cm per day. Although we know that it rapidly spreads above the ground, there has been no research conducted on what happens below the ground, yet we know that Japanese Knotweed can and does spread through its roots.

Thank you for reading our blog ‘How does Japanese Knotweed spread’. If you have spotted Japanese Knotweed and need to get it removed, we offer removal services with a 5-year warranty, take a look at our website today.

what-does-a-japanese-knotweed-winter-look-like

What does a Japanese Knotweed winter look like?

By | CYB Japanese Knotweed Removal & Management Blog | No Comments

Japanese knotweed is much easier to identify during the summer months with its large heart-shaped leaves and white bunched flowers. The real question is though, what does Japanese knotweed in the winter look like? Can you remove Japanese Knotweed throughout the winter?

One thing is for certain, Japanese knotweed does not die during the wintertime, so don’t be deceived by its dead-looking leaves and stalks! Japanese knotweed prefers to shy away in the wintertime, getting away from the cold, dampness, frost and snow. The weed is not as visible as it is tucked away beneath the ground, where its rhizome system holds on to all the energy it needs to survive through harsh weather conditions. The visible part of the plant starts to deteriorate over the autumn months, where the leaves start to fall, leaving bare canes behind.

What does a Japanese Knotweed winter look like?

As previously mentioned, what can be seen above ground is sparse, especially if the infestation is small and the weeds can be easily flattened. In summer, Japanese knotweed can grow up to 20cm per day! On the other hand, Japanese knotweed during winter usually will not progress growing unless the conditions are at a higher temperature than usual. Large spaces that contain Japanese Knotweed may however be more easily spotted. Hordes of Japanese knotweed canes can stand even throughout the wind and rain.

An effective way to spot Japanese Knotweed during winter is by looking up close. You will notice stems shaped in a zigzag pattern, growing towards the sky. These canes will have an appearance similar to bamboo in a darker shade- hollow and light. Depending on what time you catch the weed, you may also notice the remains of white flower clusters. It is important to try not to break the plant or stand on the plant when identifying them as you may unknowingly spread it to different locations.

-If you’re unsure how to identify Japanese Knotweed, get the professionals in at CYB

I’ve identified a Japanese Knotweed winter- what do I do?

Whatever the case, do not cut or chop Japanese Knotweed down. Japanese Knotweed is extremely difficult to dispose of and you can get fined for disposing of it incorrectly. Breaking canes of the knotweed risk breaking off a part of the crown attached to the underground rhizome network. This can trigger new growth, yes, but it can also lead to new areas of knotweed appearing in your property if the fragments are not properly handled.

A knotweed rhizome fragment that weighs as little as 0.7g can produce a new plant, which is why it’s so important to call up specialists like CYB as soon as possible. Specialists can remove the Japanese knotweed using methods that ensure they won’t return. In fact, CYB has a 5-year warranty to make sure that you feel confident in using their service.

Japanese knotweed winter in urban areas

Japanese knotweed in urban areas can appear little or not at all during winter, however, these are the areas that are most at harm from the weed. They can stand as a serious environmental problem, destroying local ecosystems and causing erosion near riverbanks. Winter floods can enhance a Japanese knotweed infestation as fragments of the knotweed can get transported via the water to new locations.

Thank You for reading our blog ‘What does a Japanese Knotweed winter look like’. If you have identified Japanese Knotweed in or around your property, make sure you call up the specialists CYB today.

is-japanese-knotweed-poisonous

Is Japanese Knotweed Poisonous?

By | CYB Japanese Knotweed Removal & Management Blog | No Comments

Japanese knotweed is a perennial plant that has advanced across the UK, infiltrating housing foundations and gardens. This weed is known for its ability to spread with speed and can even grow up to 10cm a day. It can be difficult to control and even more difficult to eradicate from your property, which is where Japanese knotweed removal comes in.

Whilst the plant is notorious throughout the country, there are still some unknown characteristics of Japanese knotweed.

Is it poisonous?

Luckily, despite the threat it poses to property, Japanese knotweed is not a poisonous plant. Some people can confuse Japanese knotweed with giant hogweed, which can cause severe burns when exposed to UV rays. A few cases of mild skin irritation have been reported when coming into contact with Japanese knotweed, but the plant poses no real threat to humans.

In fact, Japanese knotweed is edible. The plant can become sweet or savoury, depending on how it’s prepared, and can be eaten both raw and cooked. Harvesting Japanese knotweed for consumption doesn’t pose any risks to the environment, as there is no chance of the plant being over-harvested.

Japanese knotweed also contains Vitamin C and Vitamin A, and has been used for centuries as herbal medicine to cure many ailments. Whilst Japanese knotweed isn’t safe for your home, it is completely safe to touch and consume for both humans and animals.

What other threats does it pose?

Japanese knotweed has been known to grow through concrete and can weave itself into the structural foundations of your property. The plant can damage the foundation by targeting weak spots and growing through them. Some homeowners who have found Japanese knotweed on their property have been refused mortgages, making it difficult for them to sell their homes and move elsewhere.

Not only this, but Japanese knotweed can also threaten native vegetation. As the plant grows rapidly and up to 7ft in height, it blocks out and shades other species of fauna, making it difficult for them to thrive. Japanese knotweed also releases a chemical substance that impedes the growth of nearby plants.

How to get rid of Japanese knotweed

CYB Environmental specialises in the removal and eradication of Japanese knotweed from UK homes and gardens. When removing Japanese knotweed, our methods include:

– Chemical control
– Excavation of the plants and their roots
– On-site burial and/or encapsulation with membranes roots

Whilst it is possible to get rid of Japanese knotweed on your own, the plant can easily grow out of control and become tricky to excavate. Our methods of removal are completed with a team of highly trained individuals, with years of experience dealing with this plant. We ensure every trace of this plant is removed from your property, so there is no chance of Japanese knotweed returning.

We understand how worrying it can be to find this plant on your property, which is why we offer a cost-effective and efficient service to clients needing Japanese knotweed removal across the UK. You can get in touch with CYB Environmental for our Japanese knotweed removal service, or for more information on the plant.

If you are concerned about a plant and think it may be Japanese Knotweed, you can send us a photo and receive a free quick identification from one of our specialists.

can-japanese-knotweed-be-eradicated

Can Japanese Knotweed be Eradicated?

By | CYB Japanese Knotweed Removal & Management Blog | No Comments

Japanese knotweed spreads easily across the UK through the unintentional or deliberate movement of the plant. Thankfully, Japanese knotweed cannot spread through seed dispersion, which makes the removal of this plant easier to complete.

However, this doesn’t stop Japanese knotweed from growing at exceptional speeds and posing a threat to both properties and native vegetation. This development has lead to field trials, research and studies all being conducted to help further understand and control this plant.

Can it be eradicated?

In 2018, Swansea University conducted the world’s largest field trial on Japanese knotweed, by testing all 19 methods used to control and remove this plant. Over a period of three years, researchers found that it’s impossible to fully eradicate Japanese knotweed from the UK, with the current available methods.

However, critics of this study found that researchers had failed to properly test physical methods of removal, which have been proven to be 100% effective if done correctly. By overlooking this method, it’s difficult to state whether Swansea University was correct in their findings and how accurate their claims were.

Whilst Japanese knotweed may be impossible to eradicate from the UK, sustained control and management of the plant are almost more important. Investing in various methods of removal will improve the lives of those affected by Japanese knotweed, instead of focusing on eradicating it completely.

How to get rid of Japanese knotweed from your property

Finding Japanese knotweed on your property is worrisome but can be removed. Whilst the overall eradication of Japanese knotweed is still questionable, there is no reason why the plant can’t be eradicated from your property.

Once you have correctly identified the plant, you can then follow the steps to remove it. Japanese knotweed removal can be done with DIY if the plant growth is minimal and it hasn’t spread into the foundations of your home.

Cut down the canes and remove them from your garden or lawn, then apply a weed killer onto the remaining Japanese knotweed. Wait at least a week before removing the weeds and ensure all roots are pulled out in the process. If you are struggling with this, or have noticed Japanese knotweed returning to your property, get in touch with a specialist Japanese knotweed removal service.

How CYB Environmental can help

CYB Environmental is the only Japanese knotweed removal company and consultancy in the UK, offering an insurance backed guarantee with each treatment plan. We can help you identify Japanese knotweed on your property and remove it completely.

We use chemical control, root excavation, and burial & encapsulation to help eradicate Japanese knotweed from your home. Whether the plant has remained in your garden, or found its way into the foundations of your property, CYB Environmental will work to safely and successfully remove Japanese knotweed.

Find out more about Japanese knotweed and how you can identify it here. If you are in need of an efficient and cost-effective Japanese knotweed removal service, get in touch with CYB environmental for our full range of treatments.

Plants That Look Like Japanese Knotweed

By | CYB Japanese Knotweed Removal & Management Blog | No Comments

The spread of Japanese Knotweed on your land or property can be very damaging. With the plants rapid spreading habits, the time taken to remove it can increase dramatically and be very expensive.

The United Kingdom has a number of other plants that can be confused with Japanese Knotweed. This article by CYB Environmental will list some of the most similar plants to aid you in identifying a real knotweed infection. We are a RICS regulated company that specialise in the removal of Japanese Knotweed. For enquiries and assessments, be sure to contact us, we can help you decide whether or not you have a knotweed infection. That being said, let’s get into plants that look like Japanese Knotweed.

Plants That Look Like Japanese Knotweed

Himalayan Knotweed (Persicaria Wallichii)

When not in bloom, Himalayan Knotweed can look extremely similar to it’s Japanese counterpart due to the similar stems. Not only to the eye, but also to the touch as the stem on both plants is hollow.

Take a close look at the leaves, are they very narrow and half as wide as they are long? With the stem growing to around 1cm in diameter? If so, the plant you’re inspecting is likely to be Himalayan Knotweed. The flowers have a pink hue, rather than the pure white plants on Japanese Knotweed.

Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens Glandulifera)

Similar to Japanese Knotweed, Himalayan Balsam is a rapidly growing plant. It can quickly cover a large area and grow as tall as 2.5 Metres. It also has a hollow stem.

Begin by inspecting the stem, you will see the leaves grow opposite each other, rather than the alternating pattern of Japanese Knotweed. The leaves are also much longer and thinner too, with a pink midrib.

Plants That Look Like Japanese Knotweed
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Broad-leaved Dock (Rumex Obtusifolius)

Part of the same family, so hardly surprising that it looks similar to knotweed, Broadleaved Dock has leaves arranged alternately along the stem as well. Its flowers and stems also form spikes just like knotweed.

Stems are fluted and shorter than knotweed plants, growing up to 1m in height. The stems are not completely hollow and contain a foam-like substance when snapped open.

Chameleon Plant (Houttuynia Cordata)

The leaves of a Chameleon plant are why it often gets confused with Japanese knotweed. Both plants have heart-shaped leaves and produce flowers, with both reaching heights of a metre or above.

The big difference between them is the flowers. Japanese knotweed produces clusters of small creamy-white flowers, whilst chameleon plants have slightly larger flowers with easily distinguishable petals.

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plants-that-look-like-japanese-knotweed

Lesser Knotweed (Persicaria campanulata)

It’s not only the same that is similar. Lesser knotweed has an almost identical bamboo style hollow stem, with small flower clusters and rising to around the same height.

However, lesser knotweed can be identified by its pink flowers rather than creamy-white, with thin ovate leaves rather than heart-shaped ones. The leaves are the biggest indicator, so check this feature of the plant before you jump to any conclusions.

Ornamental Bistorts (Persicaria amplexicaulis)

Also known as Red Bistorts, this plant has similar leaves and stems to Japanese knotweed, with its stems hollow and separated into nodes. Ornamental Bistorts can be mistaken for Japanese knotweed when not in bloom.

Once flowers start to grow, this is where the plant differs. Ornamental Bistorts are also planted on purpose and don’t grow at alarming rates. You are unlikely to suddenly find Ornamental Bistorts on your property if you haven’t planted it yourself.

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plants-that-look-like-japanese-knotweed

Horsetail (Equisetum)

When it’s young, horsetail can be confused with Japanese knotweed. Its growth speed and quantity match that of Japanese knotweed, and its sudden appearance might cause some concern.

However, Horsetail soon loses its knotweed similarities as it matures, developing green stems and its signature brush-like appearance.

Russian Vine (Fallopia baldschuanica)

Russian Vine can be mistakenly identified as Japanese knotweed due to its small cluster of flowers, and its mass of green leaves. Some leaves on Russian Vine’s could also be mistaken as heart-shaped, which might cause confusion for homeowners.

Given its name, the Russian Vine plant is a climber that relies on structures to support itself, unlike Japanese knotweed.

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plants-that-look-like-japanese-knotweed

Bindweed (Convolvulus Arvensis)

With Bindweeds heart shaped leaves, it would take a closer inspection to gage whether or not it is Japanese Knotweed. The leaves of Bindweed are also similar to Knotweed due to the alternate growth patterns along the stem. Bindweed can also cover a large area very quickly if left untamed. One of that most mistaken plant that looks like Japanese Knotweed.

As the name suggests, Bindweed is a climbing plant that has the ability to grow by twisting around other erect plants. That being said, it is unable to support its own weight and lacks the ability to grow straight up, unlike Japanese Knotweed. Large pink or white flowers also appear in early summer for Bindweed, also distinguishing it from Knotweed.

Concerned about Japanese knotweed on your property? Contact CYB Environmental for our excellent removal services, or for more information on Japanese knotweed.

selling a house with japanese knotweed

Selling A House With Japanese Knotweed

By | CYB Japanese Knotweed Removal & Management Blog | No Comments

Selling A House With Japanese Knotweed

Since being introduced to Britain in the early 19th century, Japanese knotweed has spread far and wide across the country, with very few corners of the land remaining unaffected. It has been labelled as an invasive plant by the government and has become enshrined in Japanese knotweed law. Selling a house with Japanese Knotweed has been made difficult due to the requirements of removing the hardy plant, for both neighbours and new tenants.

Selling a house with Japanese Knotweed can be a stringent process, elongating the time it can take to successfully solidify a sale. Utilising our extremely simplified buying process, our clients receive a great deal, along with a fast solution to selling a house with Japanese Knotweed.

Is Selling A House With Japanese Knotweed Legal?

Selling a house with Japanese Knotweed is entirely legal, however, you may need to take some extra measures to ensure that potential buyers feel comfortable purchasing the house and confident that they will be able to secure a mortgage from their bank. This could involve either completely removing the plant from the property, or paying upfront for an insurance-backed treatment plan.

These extra measures can be detrimental when selling a house with Japanese Knotweed. There is a large stigma surrounding selling a house with Japanese Knotweed within the industry, and it is generally frowned upon. The best route to take is utilising a Japanese Knotweed removal service, like our specialists are CYB. We have years of experience removing the weed and irradiating it from properties for good.

Does Selling A House With Japanese Knotweed Cause Devaluation?

Selling a house with Japanese Knotweed can devalue the property between 5-15%, generally speaking. There have been cases where homes have been almost completely devalued as a result of severe infestations, however, these are rare occurrences.

The extent to which a property is devalued will depend on the severity of the infestation and the proximity of the knotweed to the home. This devaluation will usually be equivalent to the cost of removing the plant and restoring the property to its original value. Selling a house with Japanese Knotweed may leave property owners disheartened, but our buying offers remain high, also leaving us to handle the infestation of Japanese Knotweed.

Remove Japanese Knotweed Now!

With years of experience in Japanese Knotweed Removal, our team at CYB Environmental are true specialists. Contact our team today to enquire about our services. We remove Japanese Knotweed with the use of specialised equipment, ensuring the weed doesn’t return.

Japanese knotweed grow

Where is Japanese knotweed most likely to grow?

By | Japanese Knotweed | No Comments

Japanese knotweed is a fast growing weed that can cause major damage to the infrastructure of your home if not removed quickly. You might be wondering whether Japanese knotweed is more likely to grow in certain areas, or if it favours certain climates. CYB Environmental understands how awful this weed can be, so we have put together a comprehensive guide to the growth of Japanese knotweed and what you can do to prevent it.

Where can it grow? Japanese knotweed hotspots

Unfortunately, this weed isn’t picky with location and can grow anywhere around the UK. This is why Japanese knotweed is so difficult to completely eradicate. There are certain hotspots around the country such as Manchester, East London, South Wales, and Cornwall where the weed has frequented more. Developmental and industrial works have contributed to its growth and can be a factor in the spread of Japanese knotweed.

If your property is located in these areas and is also near industrial works, keep a keen eye out for Japanese knotweed in your home.

Environet UK has built an interactive online heatmap of Japanese knotweed growth and sightings, you can access this map here. Search your property location and learn how many sightings have been recorded in the surrounding area. The map is updated daily so you’ll always have access to the latest Japanese knotweed mentions.

Originating from Japan, the weed has adapted to the UK’s climate and continues to cause havoc across the country since its introduction in the 19th Century.

Preventing its growth

Preventing growth of Japanese knotweed will benefit you hugely in the long run. Having a Japanese knotweed specialist evaluate your property can identify and kill the weed before it overruns your garden.

However, there is nothing you can do to prevent the weed from appearing, instead it’s best to focus on preventing further growth and dealing with the issues as soon as possible. Applying glyphosate based weed killer to Japanese knotweed, after cutting down and removing the canes, will stop any further growth. But keep other plants away from this weed killer, as it will destroy them.

This process may take an extended period of time, continuously exposing the plant to these chemicals will stunt its growth and prevent further spread of Japanese knotweed. Keeping it under control is a legal requirement and not doing so could result in legal action being taken against you. Read about this issue in our blog ‘Out of Control Japanese Knotweed Could Land You With a Criminal Record’.

If removal is needed

CYB Environmental offers an industry-leading Japanese knotweed treatment service, for property owners across the UK. If this weed is destroying your garden, our expert team will work with you to remove it and prevent further growth. This can be done through the use of chemicals, or manual excavation. We will assess the situation before choosing which method best suits your predicament.

Japanese knotweed is not constricted to a specific area and any UK home could find the weed on their property. Don’t wait for the situation to worsen, contact CYB Environmental for our services or general enquiries.

Out Of control Japanese Knotweed Could Land You With a Criminal Record

Out Of control Japanese Knotweed Could Land You With a Criminal Record.

By | CYB Japanese Knotweed Removal & Management Blog | No Comments

At CYB Environment we know everything there is to know about japanese knotweed, we also know how destructive it can be. We have put together this blog to make you aware of the potential dangers of having Japanese knotweed on your property. But first, what is japanese knotweed?

What is Japanese Knotweed?

Japanese knotweed is an invasive species of plant which has bamboo-like stems and has small white flowers. This plant is part of the ‘Dock’ family and is notoriously difficult to get rid of. It is known as the phoenix in the plant world due to the fact that even fire can’t kill it off. It was originally brought to Britain for its beauty and was named the “most interesting ornamental plant of the year” in 1847. In its native homeland this plant is also kept at bay by the climate and also native insects that feed on this plant, whereas the environment in Britain allows it to grow out of control and become aggressive.

How can a plant give you a criminal record?

Japanese knotweed is a troublesome plant with huge destructive roots, they have been known to cause structural damage to many properties. The Home Office issued guidance on Japanese Knotweed in the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act of 2014. They say a person who has failed to act upon the growth of Japanese Knotweed to the extent that it affects the quality of life of those around it could find themselves being served with a Community Protection Notice.

Failure to then comply with the notice would result in a criminal offence and a large fine (which can be anything up to £2,500 for an individual and £20,000 for an organisation). In Scotland and Ireland, businesses in the local area are already held responsible for making sure Japanese Knotweed doesn’t spread to the local areas as it threatens biodiversity, the economy and human health. Having Japanese knotweed on your property can affect potential house prices, if you are looking to buy or sell.

How do I know if I have Japanese Knotweed?

Large heart shaped green leaves, arranged in a zig-zag across the stem
Red tinged roots and bamboo-like stems
Dense clumps of overgrown plants
Clusters of white flowers around July time, that attract a lot of bees
Brown dead looking stems after it’s died back in September/November time

Did you know that japanese knotweed can grow up to 20cm a day? These plants will take over your garden/property and ensure that plants in your garden will receive less sunlight. Their roots run deep underground, ensuring that they will pop up all around your property. Japanese Knotweed is strong and almost impossible to get rid of without professional help, as it can grow through concrete and tarmac ruining roads, buildings and destabilising river banks.

How do we get rid of it?

If you believe you have identified a growth of Japanese Knotweed at your home or property then don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

As a homeowner with Japanese Knotweed, you are responsible for ensuring that the plant does not spread into neighbouring land, whether it be privately or publicly owned.

Report Japanese knotweed to your local council if you have noticed that the plant growing unchecked on council land, or if it has spread onto your own property.

For any queries on the above or if you would like a free identification of a potential Japanese Knotweed plant, please contact us at info@cyb-environmental.com