Japanese knotweed is an unwelcome and highly invasive weed which can cause damage to both homes and business properties. Japanese knotweed leaves tend to be shaped like a heart or a shovel. In spring, when the plant begins to blossom, the shoots develop a red or purple hue. Light green leaves will then start to develop quite early on.
In summer, Japanese knotweed tends to shoot up quite quickly and can unfortunately spread over the garden. The stems are not unlike bamboo shoots and tiny purple specks can be visible. The leaves will develop distinctive ribs and veins. Cream-coloured flowers can be seen toward the beginning of autumn.
The plant can cause structural damage to properties
In the autumn, the leaves develop a yellow hue and they will shrink as winter approaches. Japanese knotweed can shoot up to two or three metres. However, it can be problematic for homeowners, causing structural damage if not treated.
If you require a RICS building survey to identify any defects in your property, there are a range of professionals you can turn to. A RICS building survey is the best approach for peace of mind, and specialist providers will be able to send a professional surveyor out to your home to complete it.
Japanese knotweed is able to push its way through cavity walls and drains and it can easily protrude through a crack in a wall. Once inside, it can widen gaps and continue to push its way forward, causing extensive damage. If you discover the scourge of Japanese knotweed in your garden, it’s essential that you take action as soon as possible.
Removal is essential to avoid deep-rooted problems
The roots of Japanese Knotweed can grow as deep as three metres so it’s essential that you seek immediate professional help if you find the plant flourishing in your garden, as it can get out of control.
The best means of getting rid of Japanese knotweed is to use chemicals to kill off the plant and ensure that it does not develop further and cause any unwanted structural damage. Bindweed and Japanese knotweed are fairly similar, but Japanese knotweed is by far the most destructive and invasive and it could cause damage to your property. Bindweed has large pink or white trumpet shaped flowers while knotweed has clusters of small cream coloured flowers.
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