Cumberland Council is calling upon residents and businesses to exercise heightened awareness concerning the presence of the invasive botanical plant species known as Japanese knotweed.
Originating from Japan, Taiwan, and northern China, Japanese knotweed, scientifically designated as Fallopia japonica, was initially introduced to the United Kingdom during the early 19th century, as an ornamental plant. It is a perennial plant, growing each year from its extensive underground rhizomes, and spreads rapidly both by natural means and because of human activity.
Japanese knotweed is spread by fragments of rhizome or stem being transported to new sites. Very small fragments of stem/rhizome (less than the size of a finger nail) can give growth to new plants. The plant forms dense clusters, competitively overshadowing our native vegetation and causing nuisance and structural damage.
It is an invasive weed that is exceptionally difficult to remove and control. The root system is extremely complex and can obstruct drainage systems and compromise road infrastructures. It is an offence to plant or cause it to grow in the wild, and this includes highway verges.
The council are reminding landowners with Japanese knotweed on their land, to be diligent and not to strim, strike, cut, mow or dig up to remove it, as this can only cause the weed to spread. Professional glyphosate products are required to destroy the plant, which can be bought at garden centres, will have some effect. To achieve control of Japanese knotweed, glyphosate must be applied in late summer/autumn after the plant has flowered but be vigilant to not apply the product to other vegetation.
Cumberland Council is reminding the public that they can report Japanese knotweed on highways verges (not private gardens or land) by visiting the council’s website, or by phoning the Highways Hotline, Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 5pm at 0300 373 3736
Councillor Denise Rollo, Cumberland Council’s Executive Portfolio Holder for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said:
“Our intention is to keep the public informed rather than to cause undue concern. We believe it's important for everyone to know that Japanese knotweed is present in the Cumberland area. Our primary goal is to empower individuals with knowledge about the appropriate steps to take if they happen to be landowners dealing with this issue.
“Japanese knotweed is a highly persistent plant, and our collective efforts are crucial in managing its impact. We kindly urge everyone to take proactive measures to address it. Remember, awareness is the first step toward effective control.
“Together, we can create a Cumberland environment that thrives. Thank you for your attention and cooperation.”