We have many years experience working with invasive weeds. Invasive weeds can create a serious problem, not only on development sites, but also in ecologically sensitive areas and private dwellings.
We can help you by providing specialist invasive weeds consultancy, as well as remediation and treatment services.
We undertake a wide range of invasive species works, including; Initial walkover surveys Herbicide spraying Stem injection Excavation On-site burial Off-site removal Root barrier installation Hand pulling and Brushcutting
Japanese Knotweed Japanese knotweed can regenerate from any small piece of material - root, rhizome, crown or stalk - so it can very easily be spread if the plants are disturbed. It can grow through cracks in walls, tarmac and concrete, greatly reducing land and building values. Even after treatment, the rhizome can remain dormant in the soil for years, growing again if disturbed. The EA advises that 3 to 5 years should be allowed for eradication.
Giant hogweed This plant can dominate vegetation, and can be harmful to skin or eyes. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 81 it is an offence to “plant or otherwise cause (GHW) to grow in the wild.” Its seeds are spread by wind, traffic, or on water and can remain viable for 7 – 15 years. Giant hogweed can reduce land values and, if it grows across pathways, can effectively close them.
Himalayan balsam Growing 2-3m in height, Himalayan balsam is often found along river banks, and out-competes native species leaving the ground bare in winter and susceptible to erosion. The seeds can spread by air, water, on feet or car tyres, and can remain viable for 18 months, so a two year programme is the minimum to control it. Ongoing management is essential.
Ragwort Ragwort is an injurious weed which is dangerous to livestock, especially horses where it can cause liver damage. It can also be dangerous to humans through direct contact with skin and if the pollen is inhaled. The plant is more difficult to kill the larger it is and seeds can remain dormant and viable for years (up to 15 years has been suggested). Treatment is usually ongoing and needs a minimum 2 year programme.
Rhododendron Introduced to the UK as seed in the 1760s, it soon became readily supplied by the nursery trade, becoming popular as soil and weather conditions in the UK are ideal for its growth. Seed dispersal and growing branches putting down roots where they touch the ground mean that it has reached invasive levels in many parts of the country. Its foliage shades out native flora, and wildlife populations can be greatly reduced by the dense foliage.