A property in the village which is not permanently occupied has been found with Japanese Knotweed growing in the garden. This is the most invasive weed to be found in the UK, and has spread widely over the last few decades.
The statistics need to be considered with care : -
It grows from rhizomes which can penetrate 2 metres deep
Cut or discarded pieces of the plant are likely to take root
The rhizomes can spread out to a radius of 7 metres
It can grow upwards through tarmac and concrete to a height of 2/3 metres.
Yes, it sounds horrific, but extermination can be managed !
Removing this pest should always be left to specialist contractors, as excavation is needed and the plant remains should be burned on-site.
The plant has been positively identified by Hereford Council specialists and as new growth has emerged through the adjacent grass verge, the Highways department are involved. The Parish Council is taking all possible measures to deal with the landowner and Herefordshire Council in order to control this situation completely. Parishioners are advised NOT to attempt to enter the property garden concerned !
A further invasive, but much less 'dangerous' species which is often confused with Japanese Knotweed is Himalayan Balsam, sometimes known as 'Policeman's Helmet', a tall, pink-flowered plant frequently found along river banks. This already exists in the Parish, e.g. on the north bank of the Arrow opposite the Broome Lane 'picnic site'. Its seeds explode from the plant when ripe to a distance of 7 metres, and may therefore travel far down river courses, e.g. the lower Wye valley has many patches along its banks which are being controlled and monitored.
Please do not be alarmed by the above, but report any suspected sightings of Knotweed to the Parish Council Clerk, Suzanne Wenczek or to myself. Do NOT collect samples for identification - any spread of Knotweed can lead to legal action ! !
Graham Simpson
.jpg){kind=link}