Self Removal - Can I do this myself?

Where Did Japanese Knotweed Come From - and Why Is It a Problem?

Many people ask:

• Where did Japanese Knotweed come from?
• How did it get here?
• Why is it such a big problem?

At Japanese Knotweed Cork, we hear these questions all the time - and for good reason. Japanese Knotweed is one of the most invasive and persistent plant species in Ireland and the UK.

Originally introduced from Japan in the 19th century as an ornamental plant, it was admired for its bamboo-like stems and heart-shaped leaves. Unfortunately, it quickly spread beyond gardens into the wild, where it now causes serious environmental, structural, and legal problems.

Why Japanese Knotweed Is So Difficult to Control

Japanese Knotweed is incredibly resilient. It grows in almost any soil, through nearly any season, and can survive flooding, drought, and cutting.

Standard removal methods - like cutting, burning, or pulling - rarely work. In fact, disturbing the plant can make things worse: even a tiny fragment of root (rhizome), smaller than a fingernail, can grow into a new plant.

Chemical treatments can be effective, but they require repeated applications over several years. This is why professional control and management, such as that provided by Japanese Knotweed Cork, is the most reliable long-term solution.

DIY Knotweed Control: Proceed With Caution

If you have the time, physical ability, and persistence, you can attempt long-term management using the steps below. However, Japanese Knotweed Cork strongly advises contacting a professional, as improper handling can spread the infestation further.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Isolate the Affected Area
2. Fence off the infested land, keeping barriers at least 7 metres from visible Knotweed growth.
3. Prevent Spread
4. Set up a dedicated area to clean footwear and tools after leaving the contaminated zone. Even the smallest fragment can propagate the plant.
5. Initial Herbicide Treatment
6. Apply a glyphosate-based herbicide following manufacturer safety and environmental guidelines.
7. Allow for Absorption
8. Wait for the recommended time so the plant absorbs the chemical before removing growth.
9. Cut Back Surface Growth
10. Remove above-ground growth to around 15 cm above the crown.
11. Dry and Burn the Material
12. Leave cut material in a secure, isolated area to dry. Then burn or incinerate safely.
13. Excavate Rhizomes and Crowns
14. Carefully dig out the root system by hand. Rhizomes can extend up to 2 metres deep and 7 metres horizontally.
15. Dry and Dispose
16. Place crowns and rhizomes on polythene, keep dry, and burn or incinerate within the infected area.
17. Monitor for Regrowth
18. Repeat these steps as necessary for up to 5 years.

The Professional Approach - Guaranteed Results

While DIY management can reduce regrowth, complete eradication requires specialist intervention.

At Japanese Knotweed Cork, we provide:

• Full site surveys and professional removal plans
• Licensed herbicide treatments and excavation services
• Environmentally responsible waste management
• Comprehensive warranties and follow-up inspections

Our professional approach ensures your property remains Knotweed-free long-term, giving you peace of mind.

Why Choose Japanese Knotweed Cork?

✅ Fully qualified and insured Knotweed specialists

✅ Proven methods accepted by lenders and local authorities

✅ Environmentally responsible and legally compliant practices

✅ Long-term warranty and monitoring after removal

Don't let Japanese Knotweed take over your property.

Contact Japanese Knotweed Cork today for professional, permanent, and fully compliant Knotweed removal - and reclaim your land with confidence.

For any enquiries or questions, do not hesitate to contact us!

Email. corklandscaper@gmail.com

Tel. 0870018636