Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a property in West Wales – or elsewhere in the UK – you should be aware of the potential risks of Japanese Knotweed and Running Bamboo. If you’ve not heard of them then we’re here to help, with our new guide to these invasive plants.
What is Japanese Knotweed?
Japanese Knotweed – also known as Reynoutria Japonica – is non-native to the UK, and is an invasive species, which means it has no natural predators in our country. The roots can grow to a depth of two meters and spread even further – and that’s where the problems start. Add to this that the plant is extremely resilient – even after you treat visible growth it will keep growing – and you start to understand the problems Japanese Knotweed has for buildings not just on your land but on neighbouring lands.
What can it damage?
The extensive root system means that this plant is capable of exploiting the weak points (such as cracks) of buildings, driveways, patios and more. The plant growth exerts such pressure on these areas that it can damage everything from the core structure of your house – including retaining walls – to external buildings such as garages or sheds, and underground infrastructure such as pipework as it searches for moisture. Because of its spread the buildings and infrastructure on surrounding land can also be impacted, causing even more extensive problems.
What is Running Bamboo?
While most of us think of bamboo as an ornamental garden plant, running species of bamboo can cause all sorts of issues for homeowners. Bamboo again is a non-native species of plant and, like Japanese Knotweed, the running kind is spread through a broad root system that can spread up to nine meters and will run through existing structures.
There are many different types of running bamboo, including Bashania, Sasaella and Sasamorpha.
There are also clumping varieties of bamboo – with these species they have a large root ball that doesn’t run, but they still need to be managed carefully to avoid them becoming invasive.
What can it damage?
As with the Japanese Knotweed, running bamboo easily extends beyond its original location and can damage paving, drives and structures in your property and in your neighbours’. The rhizomes (or roots) are very strong, and although the RHS says they can’t lift sound foundations, they could grow into cracks in floors, walls and drains.
What should you do?
If you suspect that you have Japanese Knotweed or any type of bamboo in your garden then contact a specialist who can assess firstly that the plants really are what you think they are, what species they are, and if they pose a potential problem. You can then discuss the best options for you.
Some bamboos for example may not need to be removed. Clump forming species are generally good garden plants, and running bamboos that are well contained either by physical barriers or exist in poor soil may just need regular monitoring.
Japanese Knotweed however does need professional treatment. Left to grow it can end up encroaching on neighbouring properties and that could mean you are liable for damages, so it’s much better to ask an expert to come and assess it and deal with it if needed.
Don’t try to deal with it yourself – it is a criminal offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to strim, flail or mow Japanese Knotweed as it will cause spreading. Equally don’t cut it or try to dig it up – contact a professional to deal with the problem.
If you’re worried about Japanese Knotweed or running bamboo, try a company such as Green Leaf Remediation which covers West Wales and will advise on the issue.