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 asking how do you 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.

Japanese Knotweed Eradication

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 >

Ah, Japanese knotweed – the villainous vine of vexation, the botanical ninja of nature, the stealthy samurai of the shrub world!

A thorn in the side of many a property across the UK, this leech of the land has seen numerous properties fall in its wake and countless more fall in value by its mere presence. A devastating addition to any home, this is one problem plant you’re definitely going to want to nip in the bud.

As Sir Francis Bacon once said, “knowledge is power”, so let’s get to work and get acquainted with the knotty pest from the Pacific.

Facts About Japanese Knotweed

In The Art of War, Sun Tzu taught how important it is to “know your enemy”. Sound advice Mr Tzu, sound advice indeed…

Luckily, here at Taylor Weed Control, we’ve got your back on this one with enough factual ammunition to take the fight to your garden plight – and win!

So, prepare to lock and load with these top facts about Japanese knotweed.

Humble origins

A non-native plant from the East, Japanese knotweed was actually brought into Britain as an ornamental plant in the early 19^th century. This introduction is commonly attributed to German physician, Philipp Franz Balthasar von Siebold, who was also a traveller and botanist.

While his studies of Japanese flora and fauna brought him national prominence, the invasive species of knotweed he brought with him eventually spread into the wild and has since become part of the British ecosystem, albeit an unwelcome one at that.

Nice one, Siebold…

An impressive spread

As the previous fact may suggest, Japanese knotweed has been known to spread at an impressive rate. In fact, it can sprout up as high as three metres tall in as little as six weeks, towering over you for all to see like the invasive inconvenience it is.

Japanese knotweed is also surprisingly strong and can cause structural problems to a property, roads and drains, particularly if there are existing cracks for it to grow through. Worse still, it has alarming regeneration powers and a tiny rhizome can form a new plant if handled incorrectly.

So, even if you think you have seen the last of this annoying weed, it could quite literally come back to haunt you if not effectively treated.

The family name

Japanese knotweed is part of a collective of flowering plants known as the smartweed family. Now, while that title may give the impression that this plant is highly intelligent, capable of engulfing mankind with its superior intellect and guile, it’s also worth knowing it’s not the only name given to this botanical tribe.

These same “smartweeds” are also commonly known as the Buckwheat family, characterised by simple design, toothless leaves and swollen joints – which immediately seems infinitely less intimidating and far more like a casting call for a Deliverance remake.

A healthy herb?

While most posts about Japanese knotweed will malign the plant as the housing hindrance it is, there are some in the nutritional world that have a wholly different take. Japanese knotweed is actually known to be a source of resveratrol, a plant compound that acts like an antioxidant.

While resveratrol is also present in other accessible foods – including grapes, peanuts and red wine – Japanese knotweed is also deemed an edible source. Not only that, it’s actually considered a delicacy in Japan and can provide several health benefits.

According to LiveStrong.com, resveratrol found in knotweed may help prevent heart disease, cancer, diabetes and early signs of ageing. However, it’s also noted that it can have a variety of negative effects as well, including drug interactions, so do your homework if you do decide to tuck into your garden guest.

A solvable problem

With all the widespread scaremongering, a Japanese knotweed discovery on your property can understandably strike fear into the hearts of anyone. However, it isn’t the end of the world, so don’t call in the bulldozers just yet. Remember, it’s just a weed – it’s nothing to soil your plants over.

That being said, in order to weed out this horticultural headache from your garden, you’ll need more than a pair of sheers and an appetite for destruction. A topiary trim won’t cut it, so be prepared to dig deep and get your hands dirty.

While it can be a massive inconvenience and prove pricy to get rid of, it is a problem that can more often than not be rectified.

Japanese knotweed treatment

Now that you’re well acquainted with Japanese knotweed, you’re probably wondering what’s the best course of action to take if you have an unwelcome visit from the dreaded plant.

If you catch it early, it can be fairly easy to treat; however, the longer you leave it, the more complex (and costly) it can become – so don’t delay if you spot the knot! Like any ailment, your best bet is to contact an expert for detection, diagnosis and treatment advice.

Luckily, Taylor Weed Control is one of the leading Japanese knotweed specialists in the UK, with over 15 years’ experience fighting this familiar foe. At Taylor Weed Control, we provide honest and transparent advice, “Taylor-made” to help rid you of this pesky plant for good.

If you suspect you have Japanese knotweed on or around your property, contact us today and request a free survey!

Request a FREE survey now!

Can you spot a lisianthus from a gardenia or tell a rose from a Persian buttercup? If you answered “no” to either of those questions, don’t worry – you’re not alone!

The world of gardening and the great outdoors can be a tad overwhelming for anyone who doesn’t have green fingers or the encyclopaedic knowledge of Alan Titchmarsh.

As such, knowing how to identify Japanese knotweed can be a tough task for an average Joe; however, that’s not to say it’s impossible…

Identifying Japanese Knotweed

Depending on the time of year, Japanese knotweed can sport many different looks. Nevertheless, regardless of its seasonal stylings, no floral fashion statement will change the fact that this Oriental irritant is still a botanical pain in the butt – especially when its within striking distance of your property.

So, how do we spot Japanese knotweed and stop it from worming its way into your home? Let’s find out.

Japanese Knotweed in Spring

During the spring, Japanese knotweed begins to make its presence known. Typically starting in mid-March, red and purple shoots will begin to appear and quickly bear rapidly growing leaves.

Japanese Knotweed in Summer

In the height of the summer, Japanese knotweed is in full swing. Bright and full, it appears green and leafy above ground, boasting creamy-white flowery clusters and purple-speckled stems.

Japanese Knotweed in Autumn

As the lush green of the summer turns to autumnal auburn, Japanese knotweed follows suit. Its leaves will turn a yellowy gold, while the stem will fade to a darker brown.

Japanese Knotweed in Winter

As temperatures drop, the wintertime design of Japanese knotweed becomes far less colourful. Brown and bare, the weed retreats back to its rooty rhizomes, leaving behind its woody stalks.

Plants that look like Japanese knotweed

To add further confusion to the situation, there are a number of other plants that strongly resemble Japanese knotweed. Featuring striking similarities, the list of leafy doubles is frustratingly long and can range from Russian Vine and Himalayan Honeysuckle to bamboo and lilac shrubs.

For more information on Japanese knotweed lookalikes, check out our “Plants That Look Like Japanese Knotweed” blog.

Professional Japanese Knotweed Identification

If you suspect you may have an infestation of Japanese knotweed on your property (or in a neighbouring property close by), perhaps the best course of action for peace of mind is to have a professional check it out for you.

At Taylor Weed Control, our team of experts are fully qualified to instantly recognise and treat any Japanese knotweed found on your property. With over 15 years of experience, we can nip it in the bud – LITERALLY – and keep your home safe, structurally sound and knotweed-free.

So, what are you waiting for? Give Taylor Weed Control a call today on 02920397554 or enquire online for a free survey and let us tie up your knotweed woes in a nice, neat bow.

Enquire Now!

From calculators and karaoke to sushi and sumo wrestling, Japan has given many gifts to the outside world. Sadly, Japanese 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.

Do I need Japanese knotweed insurance?

While it is also known as Fallopia japonica, don’t let its sweet-sounding alias fool you – this hellish herb can have a devastating effect on your property. In fact, it can leave your house reeling and rock your home’s foundation like an impromptu visit from Godzilla.

Japanese knotweed can cause structural damage to your property, ravage drainage systems and can even result in subsidence issues. If you believe your home is at risk from this savage shrub at its ruinous roots, it may be worth investing in Japanese knotweed insurance.

A good policy should see you covered for a full site survey, treatment and removal of Japanese knotweed and reparation costs in the event of damage, as well as legal expenses for any costs incurred as a result of a third-party claim.

Where can I get Japanese knotweed insurance?

While it can be hard to come by, there are a number of insurers who do cover Japanese knotweed (typically in the form of Japanese knotweed indemnity insurance). That being said, in this situation, the best form of defence is attack and arranging for Japanese knotweed treatment can be the best solution all round.

Taylor Weed Control is the leading Japanese knotweed removal specialist in Wales. With over 15 years of experience, our team of qualified surveyors and experienced technicians can rid your property of this unwelcome guest and leave your home healthy and flora free.

So, don’t let this evil export from “The Land of the Rising Sun” put a dark cloud over your property. Call Taylor Weed Control today on 029 2039 7554  or fill out our online enquiry form below and say “sayonara” to your knotweed for good. 

Submit Enquiry Form >

There’s a reason the words “Japanese knotweed” often strike fear into the hearts of homeowners and potential property buyers nationwide. Japanese knotweed can have a substantial impact on house value, leaving your finances in a bind of their own.

In extreme cases, an invasion of the Asian vegetation can slash a property’s price tag by as much as half, while a decrease in value by tens of thousands is far from unusual when it comes to Japanese knotweed house value.

Worse still, if you don’t have Japanese knotweed house insurance in place, a late discovery can add even further costs. Simply put, the negative role of Japanese knotweed in house value makes it a monumental pain in the grass, leaving both your home and your finances in a precarious position.

What does Japanese knotweed do to a house?

Okay, first things first, you’re probably wondering “What damage can Japanese knotweed do to my home? After all, it’s just a plant, right… RIGHT?!”

Wrong. In fact, this botanical beast from the east can rock your house to the core. The visible plant can grow over two metres in height, while its roots can grow as much as three metres deep and stretch out up to seven metres wide from the surface growth.

The roots themselves are bamboo-like and can spread thick and fast. If left untreated, they can quickly block drains, weaken walls and even damage the foundations of your property. As such, the affect of Japanese knotweed in house pricing can be devastating.

Japanese knotweed and mortgages

Due to the structural dangers associated with hellish herb, it can be difficult for would-be homeowners to find a mortgage for properties with Japanese knotweed. That being said, it isn’t impossible…

Most lenders will require a professional surveyor to assess the property, in order to assess the risk and/or damage. If the knotweed is causing severe problems or poses a substantial risk, it can have a direct effect on your mortgage application.

While all lenders will have their own individual checks and preferences, there are a few factors that typically come into play:

• Japanese knotweed in house next door

If your neighbours have Japanese knotweed on their property, mortgage lenders will then need to determine if your home is at risk of it spreading.

If the knotweed is more than seven metres away from the property boundary, this is typically deemed low-risk; however, if the weed is discovered within seven metres of the property boundary, this can be viewed as a concern for some lenders.

• Japanese knotweed on your property

Similarly, even if the knotweed is present on your own land, the distance of it from the habitable part of your property can also be a big factor.

For example, if Japanese knotweed is discovered in your garden but it’s more than seven metres away from your house, you may still be granted a mortgage (although a specialist survey will likely be required before approval).

If the knotweed is discovered within seven metres of the living space, it likely poses a substantial risk. In fact, Japanese knotweed house damage could well have already impacted your property, surrounding drains or its outbuildings. Repair work will likely be needed before approval.

If your property is at risk from Japanese knotweed, don’t let it tie your finances up in knots. Call Taylor Weed Control today for a Japanese knotweed house survey and nip it in the bud now – it could save you a bundle!

Request a FREE Survey

Further information:

• Buying a house with Japanese knotweed
• Selling a house with Japanese knotweed