FAQs
My neighbour has knotweed in their garden and I’m afraid of it coming to mine. What can I do about it?
The landowner has a responsibility to prevent it from spreading to your property. However, in our experience, pursuing legal action is often counterproductive. We recommend approaching the landowner amicably, highlighting the clear benefits of addressing the issue. Feel free to provide them with our contact details, and we would be happy to offer further advice.
Can the sale of my house fall through because knotweed is in my garden?
Unfortunately, yes, sometimes even if it is not in yours but on your neighbouring land. See Mortgage Problems page.
Will pulling it out weaken and then kill it like bindweed?
Pulling out the weed will make matters worse, as small pieces of rhizome will break off and start new growth. They were doing this for many years at Buckingham Palace and the knotweed still came back.
I have cut it down, can I compost it?
We heavily advise against composting Japanese knotweed. Composting will not destroy it, and new growth may emerge from green shoots. However, dead canes are not a risk.
Why can’t I kill it myself?
Many people attempt to tackle it themselves but often end up seeking professional help. Unsuccessful efforts can result in deformed plants with no leaf growth, making them even more difficult to eradicate. Japanese knotweed is extremely challenging to destroy. Effective treatment requires the correct application of professional products, at the right time of year, under suitable weather conditions, using the appropriate tools, and carried out by a qualified and experienced specialist.
Why do you inject the plant?
This technique is particularly useful as all the chemical is kept within the confines of the stem and therefore no other plants are damaged/killed by the process.
Are the chemicals you use safe?
Yes, the chemicals are safe for both humans and pets, although one is prohibited in certain situations and would only be used under the correct circumstances. This is why a site visit is essential.
How do I know that the treatments have worked?
Complete certainty is only possible by excavating every centimetre of rhizome and conducting laboratory tests. However, a reliable indicator is the absence of regrowth. We have successfully treated numerous parks, open spaces, woodlands, and residential properties for London councils, with no recurrence observed over many years.
What if it comes back?
We offer a warranty that includes annual visits throughout the guarantee period, during which we will treat any regrowth at no additional cost. This can be particularly beneficial if you are selling your property and the new owner requires reassurance.
I am sure I have knotweed but mine doesn’t look like anything I have seen on the web. How can I tell?
There are many types of knotweed, some have much larger or heart shaped leaves, some are smaller, almost bonsai. We can come and view for you or just send us a photo.
What is the cost of treating knotweed?
Each situation is unique, but we will give you a firm competitive quote within 48 hours of the site visit.
Will my good plants and lawn be ruined by your treatments?
They don’t have to be. It depends on the methods used. Injecting causes no collateral damage but other techniques will affect non target flora.
Got further questions?
If there is anything you are still unsure of or would like to speak to a member of our team please call 020 8769 7321 or fill in the form.
GET IN TOUCH WITH OUR TEAM
For a personalised solution to remove knotweed from your property, just contact our experts. You can reach us by calling 020 8769 7321 or sending an email to info@japaneseknotweed.london
