Japanese Knotweed is a problem in Ireland. The damage it causes can run into thousands of euro and it is very difficult to completely remove.
Here are a few facts you should know:
- Japanese Knotweed is a fast growing, aggressive plant that causes extensive damage to buildings when allowed to grow freely and this can delay construction works on developments by more than a year.
- The plant has the ability to grow through cement, tarmac, paving stones and brickwork. It can cause extensive damage to drains.
- It is very resilient and can withstand very high temperatures, so is able to grow in volcanic areas. It can also withstand being burnt and will regrow from the ashes.
- During spring and summer the Japanese Knotweed can grow at a rate of 40mm per day.
- As it is a native of Asia and not Ireland, there are no natural enemies preventing it’s growth here such as insects and fungus.
- It can take several years to eradicate a break out of Japanese Knotweed. This means that the treatment to remove it has to be ongoing and regular to ensure that it doesn’t return.
- It is against the law to grow Japanese Knotweed or to allow it spread onto your neighbours land.
- It has to be disposed of at a licensed landfill site and the site owner must be notified.