

Exploring the Potential Health Risks: Is Japanese Knotweed Poisonous?
Is Japanese Knotweed poisonous for cats or dogs? This is a query that we are asked frequently. Japanese Knotweed is a well-known...


Japanese knotweed biological control
Knotweed, known as itadori in Japan, possesses a captivating allure with its poetic nickname "tiger cane." This name draws inspiration...


Dr. Dan Jones battles Japanese Knotweed
Welcome to a magnificent five-hectare haven situated on the picturesque banks of the river Taff, just outside Cardiff. Here, a remarkable and audacious experiment has been unfolding for over a decade, revealing the secrets of taming the notorious knotweed. Leading this endeavor is the dedicated and tenacious Dan Jones, who embarked on his knotweed management PhD journey back in 2011 and has since become the caretaker of this peculiar patch. Jones, of Advanced Invasives consul


History of Japanese knotweed spread
The story of knotweed and its impact on Britain begins with an entry in the Inwards Books, ancient ledgers stored in the archives of Kew Gardens. Dated August 9th, 1850, the entry records the arrival of 40 knotweed plants from a nursery in Leiden, brought by German doctor Philipp Franz von Siebold. This marked the earliest known instance of knotweed in Britain, its introduction intertwined with the country's history of trade. During the colonial, industrial, and post-industri


Japanese knotweed commands attention!
Japanese knotweed commands attention with its mesmerizing biological vigor and a prowess unmatched in nature's survival arena. It looms above its diminutive rivals, throwing shade and thwarting their quest for sunlight. But that's not all—its leafy debris unleashes chemical warfare, cunningly stunting the growth of neighboring plants. And here's a surprising twist: while knotweed won't crack solid concrete or topple buildings, it ingeniously sneaks through minuscule crevices


Bowes battles Japanese Knotweed
There are individuals like Gethin Bowes, who embody the status of the state's determined soldiers in the fight against knotweed. With his stocky build and broad shoulders seemingly custom-made to bear a herbicide-spraying backpack, Bowes has become a symbol of resilience. For 18 long years, he fearlessly served in the ranks of Caerphilly, a Welsh county borough nestled along the Rhymney River. But when the time was ripe for a change, Bowes fearlessly took the leap and joined


Wheelbarrow chasing Japanese knotweed nuisance claims
The emergence of knotweed as a property nightmare has prompted the formation of legal firms specializing in knotweed claims. One such firm, Charles Lyndon, was founded by lawyer Rodger Burnett after he discovered knotweed in his newly purchased south London home. Burnett's personal experience with the invasive plant inspired him to assist others facing similar challenges. These firms handle numerous cases, with some lawyers humorously referred to as "wheelbarrow chasers" due


Japanese knotweed the pervasive plant
As biologists conduct their fieldwork, they encounter knotweed colonies that rival the size of double-decker buses. One expert from Wales vividly recalls stumbling upon a colossal stand of knotweed sprawling over an astonishing 20,000 square meters, almost equivalent to four Boeing 747s parked side by side. Knotweed's audacious invasion even impacted the preparations for the 2012 Olympics, necessitating a staggering £70 million expenditure to cleanse affected venues of the pe


War on Japanese knotweed
Paul Ryb, a former investment banker with severely impaired eyesight, embarked on a new chapter of his life by purchasing a new home for almost £1.3m in the charming neighborhood of Highgate in north London. The ground floor flat he purchased appeared to be an idyllic abode, boasting a two-story, brown-brick construction with two bedrooms and a modest extension. However, it was the expansive corner-plot garden that held the promise of tranquil moments amidst nature's beauty


Round up debate rages!
Quite an emotive subject, especially with the ongoing case(s) in America regarding the safety of Glyphosate. But as the dust settles slightly let’s look at the facts. Opinions on this subject may vary, but this is what I believe from years working within an Industry where we rely on Glyphosate. Yes, I have heard of cases where the product has been misused. Yes, not all glyphosate-based products are equal and yes, I understand the arguments against its use but used in line wi























