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Winter Japanese Knotweed Control Once familiar with the physical appearance of Japanese knotweed it is not difficult to spot this invasive weed in a huge number of locations throughout the country. Whether in the countryside or urban areas, it soon becomes apparent that thanks to a rapid growth rate and a complex network of underground creeping stems (rhizomes), this non-native species can cause serious damage to structures and the surrounding ecosystem. With winter setting in, Japanese knotweed stands become bare, skeletal bamboo-like hollow stems; a dramatic transformation from the dense leaf-covered appearance in summer. The remains above ground, however, do not mirror the vast network of rhizomes riddled throughout the soil, spreading up to seven metres out from the original plant and up to three metres below the surface. Rhizome fragments are capable of producing new Japanese knotweed growth above ground therefore increasing the size of the infestation or spreading it to other areas once the soil where the original plant was located has been disturbed. It is important to take this into consideration if Japanese knotweed has been indentified in an area where it must be treated over the winter months. Excavation and removal of the infestation is possible providing the material removed is disposed of at an approved landfill site or the Japanese knotweed is moved to an appropriate location on-site in order to be treated in a controlled manner with herbicides. The excavated soil can be sprayed using a residual herbicide that remains in the soil for up to 200 days, targeting the rhizomes still present and reducing the possibility of new growth appearing in the following spring. To stop its growth it is very necessary to take help of Japanese Knotweed Control services. Spring Japanese Knotweed Control With warmer weather approaching, our surroundings begin to show the first signs of what the year will bring. New shoots appear from the soil and struggle to compete for precious resources, however, there is a species that has been dominating the landscape in locations nationwide for a many years. Since the introduction of Japanese knotweed to Britain in the 1830s as an ornamental garden plant, it was noted for its ability to grow and spread quickly, out competing and dominating the local flora. At present Japanese knotweed poses a serious problem due to its ability to grow through a variety of construction materials and structures, a major concern for developers and home owners alike. Juvenile Japanese knotweed growth has the appearance of small reddish-green asparagus shoots, emerging from the soil and producing small shield shaped leaves. As growth continues the stem starts to thicken into bamboo-like hollow tubes with distinct raised nodes or ‘knots’ and the leaves enlarge and develop a vibrant green colour. The new Japanese knotweed growth is the perfect candidate for herbicide application providing there is sufficient time available to treat the infestation over three to four years with up to three herbicide treatments taking place per year.
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