Self Removal - Can I do this myself?

Where Did Japanese Knotweed Come From - and Why Is It a Problem?

Many homeowners and landowners ask the same important questions:

• Where did Japanese Knotweed come from?
• How did it get to Ireland and the UK?
• Why is it such a big problem today?

At Japanese Knotweed Cork, we hear these questions every day - and for good reason. Japanese Knotweed is one of the most invasive and destructive plant species in Ireland and the UK, posing serious environmental, structural, and even legal challenges for property owners.

The Origin of Japanese Knotweed

Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) was introduced from Japan in the 19th century as an ornamental plant. It was admired for its tall, bamboo-like stems and lush, heart-shaped leaves, making it a popular garden feature.

Unfortunately, this decorative plant didn't stay confined to gardens. It quickly spread into the wild and across urban areas, where it thrives in almost any soil type. Today, Japanese Knotweed is classified as a controlled invasive species, causing damage to buildings, driveways, and natural habitats across the country.

Why Japanese Knotweed Is So Difficult to Control?

Japanese Knotweed is exceptionally resilient. It can grow through tarmac, concrete, and even building foundations. The plant's underground root system, known as rhizomes, allows it to regenerate from fragments smaller than a fingernail.

Common removal methods such as cutting, burning, or digging often fail - and can actually make the problem worse by spreading rhizome fragments to new areas.

While chemical treatments using approved herbicides can help, they usually require several years of repeated applications to fully kill the plant. That's why professional management, such as that provided by Japanese Knotweed Cork, offers the most reliable and long-term results.

DIY Japanese Knotweed Removal: Proceed With Caution

If you're determined to try self-removal or DIY management, it's vital to follow proper procedures to avoid spreading the infestation further. At Japanese Knotweed Cork, we recommend the following cautious approach:

Step-by-Step DIY Knotweed Control:

1. Isolate the Area - Fence off the affected zone, keeping at least 7 metres from visible growth.
2. Prevent Spread - Clean all footwear and tools after leaving the contaminated area.
3. Apply Herbicide - Use a glyphosate-based herbicide, following safety and environmental guidelines.
4. Allow Absorption - Give the plant time to absorb the chemical before cutting.
5. Cut Back Growth - Trim the plant to about 15 cm above the crown.
6. Dry and Burn Material - Let the cuttings dry completely before burning or safe disposal.
7. Excavate Rhizomes - Carefully dig out root systems, which can extend 2 metres deep and 7 metres wide.
8. Dispose Responsibly - Keep material dry on polythene sheets and incinerate on-site where possible.
9. Monitor for Regrowth - Continue inspections and treatments for up to 5 years.

While DIY removal can limit growth, complete eradication is rare without professional intervention.

For any enquiries or questions, do not hesitate to contact us!

Email. corklandscaper@gmail.com

Tel. 0870018636