A mossy path can be problematic for a number of reasons. Not only is it unsightly, it may be dangerously slippery, and the moss can - in some cases - actually cause damage to the path by lifting stones or creating cracks as it grows.

For these and other reasons, it's a good idea to act quickly when you notice moss growing on your path or driveway. An Internet search for 'how to kill moss' will provide you with dozens of home remedies - most of them involving vinegar - but if you want results that last, the best course of action is usually to call in a moss control specialist who can treat the problem properly.

Why is moss growing on my path?

As the RHS website explains, moss - and similar growths like algae and lichens - are usually found in damp places where there's plenty of moisture. Your path may be more prone to moss growth if:

• The path is in a shady spot
• There are trees and/or other plants overhanging the path
• Water remains on the path for a long time after rain (poor drainage)

The RHS actually recommend allowing moss and lichens to flourish in areas they don't present a hazard (e.g. on stone sculptures), but we've already touched upon, a mossy path can present a serious slip hazard, especially in winter. So what can you do?

Get your mossy path under control!

Here at Taylor Weed Control, we offer a professional moss control service that's available in Cardiff, Bristol, Swansea, and most other parts of South Wales and South West England.

Our seasoned moss control experts will use specialist treatments to control your moss and keep it under control for the long term. We've helped all kinds of clients to deal with their moss problems, including sports clubs and local authorities as well as private residents.

If you'd like to request a FREE moss control survey, please call Taylor Weed Control on 029 2039 7554 or email sales@taylortwc.co.uk today.

Moss Control Services >   Request a Free Survey >

Photo courtesy of Pixabay

In September 2018, the Independent reported that Japanese knotweed had knocked nearly £20 billion off the value of the UK property market, with an estimated 850,000-900,000 properties affected nationwide.

Why does this particular weed pose such a big problem? Well, Japanese knotweed is exceedingly difficult to get rid of. Not just because the plant's rhizome root system can sometimes burrow a full 2 metres down into the ground, but also because a tiny fragment of those roots can sprout into a whole new stem.

This allows Japanese knotweed (once beloved by UK gardeners for its resemblance to bamboo) to spread to new sites at a truly alarming rate - ironically, many attempts to destroy the weed only end up helping it to take root elsewhere!

So, if you're sat around wondering how to get rid of Japanese knotweed, the professionals here at Taylor Total Weed Control are here to help!

We don't recommend trying to remove Japanese knotweed yourself.

Japanese knotweed is recognised by British authorities as a highly invasive non-native plant, and there are certain laws in place to keep it from spreading. For example, Japanese knotweed is classed as 'controlled waste', meaning that it can only be disposed of at specially licensed landfill sites.

As mentioned above, attempting to eradicate Japanese knotweed by yourself can backfire and make the problem even worse, so it's generally wise to call in a Japanese knotweed removal specialist to assess the situation and determine the best course of action.

How to Get Rid of Japanese Knotweed Permanently

Broadly speaking, there are two ways to get rid of Japanese knotweed:

• Herbicide - Spraying the plant's leaves with herbicide is generally the most cost-effective solution. Herbicide application should take place over several years to ensure the best possible results.
  
  
• Excavation & Disposal - The other option is to use excavation machinery to dig up the affected site, after which the knotweed can be disposed of at one of the aforementioned licensed landfill sites. This is by some distance the more expensive and disruptive approach of the two, but it may be preferable if you're on a deadline.

So, when it comes to getting rid of a knotweed infestation on or near your property, you have the two above choices. Whicher you decide to use will ultimately depend on your preference in terms of time and disruption.

How we can help get rid of your Japanese knotweed infestation

Here at Taylor Total Weed Control, we provide specialist Japanese knotweed removal across South Wales and South West England that ensure any confirmed case of knotweed on or around your home is dealt with in a professional and effective manner.

So, what are you waiting for!? To get rid of your Japanese knotweed, get in touch with our expert team today before it's too late!

Request a FREE Knotweed Survey >

From calculators and karaoke to sushi and sumo wrestling, Japan has given many gifts to the outside world. Sadly, knotweed is not one of them…

Japanese knotweed grows thick and fast with roots strong enough to break through tarmac. If neglected, it can cause havoc beneath the surface of your property.

Worse still, typical home insurance policies won’t cover damage caused by Japanese knotweed. While this does mean your insurance premiums may be unaffected, it does mean you are left to foot the removal bill.

In this blog, we take a closer look at the pesky plant from the East and answer a common question among homeowners, "does Japanese knotweed affect insurance?"

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