What is it?
Japanese Knotweed was introduced from Asia in the mid-nineteenth century as an ornamental plant. Growing to a height of 2-3 meters, it is now present throughout England and Wales and is particularly prevalent on derelict sites where fly-tipping has taken place.
It has a very aggressive growth pattern, and thrives on disturbance, with reproduction from rhizomes (including tiny fragments) and fresh stems often extending to 7 meters laterally and to a depth of 3 meters. This rapid growth can expose weaknesses in hard engineered structures such as concrete, tarmac, brick walls and foundations as well as causing significant ecological harm.
It is a difficult plant to control and eradication may involve removal of large volumes of soil and/or herbicidal treatment over a number of years.
 |
 |
How we can help
Southern Testing have extensive experience in dealing with the problems that this can create and of liaison with specialist ecologists, to produce cost-effective and viable treatment options for affected developers and owners.
