As your landlord it’s our responsibility to treat Japanese knotweed but we’ll need to work together. We need you to read this guide to make sure that the problem does not spread further, or cause any more damage to your garden or home.
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This is what’s called an ‘invasive weed’. It was brought into Europe from Asia as a decorative border plant in the 19th century. It’s now a real problem in urban areas because it can grow very quickly and cause all sorts of damage to structures - such as concrete and pavement.
A young plant sends up small shoots that look similar to asparagus and can vary widely in size. The most recognisable thing is their red stems and heart shaped leaves. More mature, unmaintained plants can reach 5 metres in height and spread over a wide area.
Click below to see more pictures of what this dangerous plant looks like...
No, in fact in Asia, the plant is eaten in its young state, apparently tasting similar to a cross between rhubarb and asparagus. This is not recommended though.
Fill out the form at the bottom of this page if you believe you have Japanese Knotweed on or around your property
Do not under any circumstances be tempted to cut it down. This makes the plant grow and spread faster. Walking over it can also spread its growth. It’s very important that you don’t try to dispose of it yourself. This is illegal, and you can be prosecuted for doing so.
Instead, get in touch with us and we’ll treat it as part of a managed programme of work to remove it from your home.
Treatment can take a long time, but we’ll work together to make sure your home is safe from this dangerous plant.
To see what to do and what not to do, click the button below:
The plant is treated with a weed killer called glyphosate, either through injecting the plant or by spraying.
In the winter the dead stems will be cut and shredded back onto the same area. This is to give us access to spray the new shoot that come through. Shoots should reach at least 1m before chemicals can be applied.
There will normally be 2 chemical applications per year. This process will be followed each year until we have no further growth coming through.
We know that Japanese knotweed can lay dormant under the soil for a number of years, so the affected area will be monitored for several years after treatment has taken place to ensure that it has been eradicated.
Yes you can. However you must stay out of the treatment area which will be fenced off with temporary fencing and warning signs.
While you are free to make use of all the space in the garden we would ask that you do not dig or disturb the affected Japanese knotweed area.
For example:
• Do not dig into the soil to put in new plants • Do not excavate out a shed base or any other structure of this type
Instead:
• Use plants in pots • Keep your garden well maintained to reduce the chance of re-growth
DON’T
• Don’t cut down or remove any Japanese knotweed • Don’t dig your garden in the affected Japanese knotweed area
DO
• Make the most of your garden understanding the restrictions above • Keep an eye out for any new growth and report it immediately
Unfortunately yes, there is a possibility it could. If you believe it has come back, let Midland Heart know and we will carry out some more treatments until it is removed.
We work closely with our contractor Japanese Knotweed Specialists. They use their professional expertise to identify and remove Japanese Knotweed in a timely and safe manner.
If you've found Japanese knotweed, please let us know straight away by filling out this form:
