Japanese Knotweed Removal

Japanese Knotweed is a large herbaceous perennial plant native to Asia, in Japan, China and North Korea. In North America and Europe the species is very successful and it has been classified as an invasive species in several countries. It is a member of the Polygonaceae family and has hollow stems with distinct raised nodes that give it the appearance of bamboo, although it is not closely related. In one growing season the stems can grow 3-4 meters, however it is common to see smaller plants in places where they sprout through cracks in the pavement or are repeatedly cut. The evasive root system and strong growth can damage building foundations and walls. Japanese knotweed has a large underground network of roots. To eradicate the plant the roots have to be killed, picking the right herbicide is essential, as it must travel through the plant and into the root system below. The best known active eradicator is glyphosate, it is a systematic herbicide which penetrates through the plant and travels to the roots.