Removal of Japanese Knotweed by attempting to dig it out is usually impractical and costly because it is so invasive and spreads widely. A 25mm length of root left in the ground is sufficient for the plant to regrow. When the first frost comes the leaves and stems above ground will die but untreated plants will continue to live underground ready to sprout new growth in the following Spring.
The preferred method of treatment is with the herbicide Glyphosate. A retail version of this chemical is available to the general public but its low strength means treatment is a long-term solution and can take up to five years of continued treatment to completely eradicate the weed.
Clearway’s operatives are qualified and accredited to use undiluted industrial strength Glyphosate. This is injected directly into each stem (stem injection) for larger plants and sprayed onto smaller plants (foliage spray). If spraying is not suitable for a given area we are also able to provide removal by excavation.
Stem injection can be used in all weathers and eradication can sometimes be achieved in two seasons.
After each treatment is complete the property owner or tenant will be advised not to touch the Japanese Knotweed plants and not to walk on or dig soil in the vicinity.