Japanese knotweed
Japanese knotweed is a harmful, invasive plant which spreads rapidly. Brick walls, concrete and tarmac do not stop it. This can ultimately result in walls becoming unstable, paths breaking up and drainage systems being damaged.
Japanese knotweed identifiers:
- green shovel shaped leaves
- stem is bamboo like in appearance
- produces white flowers around September or October
- grows rapidly.
For more help identifying it, download the NNSS Japenese Knotweed leaflet.
The potential for damage is so great it is understood that mortgage companies will not give a mortgage on a property where Japanese knotweed is present.
There is a lot of information available about controlling the weed.
Guidance on how to control and dispose of Japanese knotweed is available from GOV.UK: Prevent Japanese knotweed from spreading.
The Royal Horticultural Society website also has good information.
Our advice to property owners in Derby is to carry out regular checks of your garden and take action as soon as it is seen. A small area of growth is going to be much cheaper to treat and control than the whole garden and it will minimise the expense of repairing walls and drains.
Professional treatment for Japanese knotweed
There are a number of professional companies who can quote for a treatment plan.
Derby City Council's Commercial Services have qualified staff who will be able to give you an estimate to treatment Japanese knotweed.
If you are a Derby Homes tenant and have knotweed in your garden, contact your local housing team for advice.
The Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime & Policing Act 2014 provides discretionary powers to enable steps to be taken for land to be cleared when its condition adversely affects the amenity of the area. However the council will not generally take any formal action because of the extensive treatment period necessary to destroy the plant.