Gardeners asked to check gardens for invasive plant that grows in August
Invasive plants can have detrimental effects on a property, lowering a home's value and preventing new buyers from obtaining a mortgage. Certain species, like bamboo and trees like Leyland cypress, are very fast-growing, but Japanese knotweed is the most visible in late summer.
TL;DR
- Japanese knotweed is an invasive plant that becomes most visible in late summer (August).
- It has bamboo-like stems, leaves in a zigzag pattern, and creamy white flowers.
- The plant can lower property value, prevent mortgage acquisition, and harm native ecosystems.
- Its vigorous rhizomes spread easily from small fragments and can remain dormant for years.
- Incorrect disposal, such as home composting or green-waste bins, can worsen the spread.
- The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) advises professional removal and careful identification.
- Gardeners should check borders, boundaries, and areas around structures before September.