Amazing What You Find When You Look!!
That was the title of an e-mail sent through to me after a recent seminar in Scotland.
The Surveyor that sent the e-mail had attended a talk on Japanese Knotweed and had thought that he had spotted some new growth in the rear garden of a newly occupied property. He was actually wrong – the plant was broadleaved dock – but the point was …he had noticed!!
The main point that I push when talking about non native species or alien plants – is that they often don’t stand out. IF they were bright red which huge orange flowers that fired poisonous venom at you – then they would be easy to spot…..!
But they aren’t ….Japanese Knotweed often blends into the surrounding landscape with nothing obvious to warn you of its invasive nature. Yes – once you are in the know – you will spot new growth – you will notice the rapidity of its spread…BUT to the average member of the public out for a river side walk – he will be unaware of the problems Japanese Knotweed can cause.
So if nothing else – at least learn to spot the invasive plants – know your weeds!
As we approach winter this does get a little more awkward – Japanese Knotweed loses its leaves – the canes do remain erect during its dormant period, usually 2 metres or so in height with a nutty brown colouration.
If you do spot it over winter just watch how it then grows in Spring…its amazing the rapidity of its spread!
Once you are aware of what the plants look like - then something can be done to sort the problems – if you aren’t even aware that there are problems…..then how are you going to ever resolve the issues?
Mike C
