Methods to Kill Japanese Knotweed Removal Permanently | JKSL

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How To Kill Japanese Knotweed?

Known as one of the most troublesome weeds in the world, so how do you kill Japanese knotweed? The invasive plant has been known to impact entire gardens and cause thousands of pounds’ worth of damage to buildings if it’s not eradicated early enough. Fully exterminating the weed has proved difficult due to the extensive rhizome network associated with the plant.

Japanese knotweed grows in most environments and can grow some 4cm per day, resulting in a dense infestation in only a couple of weeks. More so, it only takes a small fragment of rhizome for it to grow. It can be transported through soil importation, during construction or even by footwear. Fortunately, with consistent and persistent efforts Japanese knotweed can be eliminated.

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Japanese Knotweed Solutions Limited
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Jan 25, 2019
by Richard Stonehouse, SKANSKA on Japanese Knotweed Solutions Limited

We have been very happy with the service provided to us by JKSL. Always prompt and reliable, with competitive quotations. JKSL have completed significant amount of work for us and will continue to be our preferred supplier given the assistance they have given us to date on a complex site.

May 3, 2018
by Steve Thornton on Japanese Knotweed Solutions Limited

A very professional service

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Oct 6, 2017
by Michelle Scott on Japanese Knotweed Solutions Limited

The original Japanese Knotweed and Invasive Weed specialists in the UK, offering a full service from survey through to treatment and eradication including insurance-backed guarantees.

Using Herbicides

So, what chemical products can be used for Japanese knotweed treatments? Herbicides, including Glyphosate based products, are effective at eradicating this notorious plant. Glyphosate based herbicides are applied on the foliage of the weed using a sprayer after being mixed in a tank. The Glyphosate herbicide can also be injected into the stem. This method is most suitable for ecologically sensitive areas where spraying is not suitable.

It’s advisable to spray the Japanese knotweed through various stages of the plant’s development during the growing season. The infestation size, presence of watercourses and general public all have to be considered during herbicide selection.

Note that herbicide treatments do take time to work, and chemical treatments for Japanese knotweed eradication can take around 3 to 5 years to complete.

Digging out Rhizomes

What about Japanese knotweed removal by digging it out? Rhizomes (the extensive network of underground roots) are very proactive in the spreading of Japanese knotweed. Therefore, excavating the rhizome fully and either disposing them to a licensed landfill facility or an alternative mechanical remediation strategy is one of the best ways of removing the plant. Ensure that all the pieces that have been removed whilst implementing a clean site policy to prevent cross-contamination.

Clearance and Chipping of Japanese Knotweed

How can Japanese knotweed stems be disposed of? Chipping Japanese knotweed can be used as means of disposing of the stem cuttings to improve aesthetics and to facilitate access to the infestations. However, it is important to ensure that the cuttings have sufficiently dried out before being chipped to prevent regrowth. Ideally these works should be undertaken within the winter period. Chipping on-site should be done in a controlled way to avoid cross contamination.

Using MeshTech Removal Method

What eco-friendly ways are there for Japanese knotweed treatment? The MeshTech method is an eco-friendly means of controlling the spread of Japanese knotweed. Designed by Dr Eric Connelly and JKSL, the method does not use any chemicals, and therefore leaves the lowest possible on-site footprint where it is used. It is also useful in preserving soil fertility and controlling soil erosion, especially along river banks.

MeshTech can be a preferred methodology over herbicide use because it ensures that the surrounding environment remains as unaffected as it can be, conserving animal and plant life. It is an ideal deal technique for Japanese knotweed eradication on riverside locations, railway embankments and highways. 

Biological Control of Japanese Knotweed

Can biological methods be used for Japanese knotweed eradication? Although still being tested out, the biological method is one of the environmentally-friendly methods of dealing with Japanese knotweed. JKSL closely follow the work of CABI (Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International) and DEFRA (The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs), who began the psyllid release programme in Spring 2010. A natural predator, the psyllids insect, has been discovered as a method of naturally keeping the plant under control. Biological control will not kill Japanese knotweed, but it is hoped it will slow the spread of the plant and make it more vulnerable to chemical control. If this method works, it will be a huge relief to landowners across the UK. 

Conclusions About Japanese Knotweed Removal

There are several methods that effectively control Japanese knotweed. (Find out more about potential japanese knotweed removal costs.) Eliminating the weed often requires a multi-pronged approach by applying different methodologies. Often, hiring a professional service such as JKSL for Japanese knotweed removal is the only way that you can be sure the weed and its roots have been completely eradicated. 

If you need help with Japanese knotweed identification then contact JKSL for expert help and advice. 

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