Japanese Knotweed is a rapidly spreading plant due to its fast-growing roots. With its shoots starting to appear early spring, it can reach heights of several metres by the end of summer. It has been possible to identify Japanese knotweed throughout the entirety of the UK since its first identification in 1850, with its network expanding at an alarming rate. Whilst there is not particular patterns to the knotweed’s presence, identified in certain areas of the UK are Japanese Knotweed hotspots.
The northwest of England has been shown to have the highest prevalence of Japanese knotweed in the UK. In comparison to the south, the north of the country should have higher infestation rates requiring active treatment and management. Titled 3 out of the top 4, these places in the Northwest are the most severely effected places by Japanese Knotweed.
Bolton has gained the title of being the ‘Japanese knotweed capital of the UK’ in 2022 with
having up to 684 infestations within a 2.5-mile radius of the town centre. Furthermore, since April 2020 that figure has increased by 22 percent!
St Helens appears third in the national ranking for the worst affected places for Japanese knotweed. Consequently, the knotweed has been found to decrease house prices in knotweed ridden areas by 5%.
Bristol has been found to be the second most affected place by Japanese knotweed in the UK. Altogether finding that Bristol has 475 infestation cases of Japanese knotweed within a 2.5-mile radius of the town centre.
The region of Wales is increasingly being hard hit with Japanese knotweed infestation rates growing rapidly. Having 3 places in the top 10 most hard-hit areas in the UK. For this reason, environmentalists are arguing that due to the rapid prevalence of Japanese knotweed in Wales. It is becoming increasingly difficult and stubborn to combat.
Lastly, Streatham in south-west London, is the only location in the top 10 in the London area and came in at ninth with 300 logged infestations. Although prevalence is minimal
now, research is showing a link between urbanisation and the increase in appearance of Japanese knotweed.
If you live in any of these areas or think that you have Japanese knotweed in your garden- get in contact with us and we will be able to book you in for a Site Survey and Management Plan to treat the knotweed as soon and as effectively as possible! We cover the entirety of the UK, so we can help no matter where you are in the country!
If you are unsure if you have Japanese Knotweed or how to manage it, contact us to book in for a site survey. We will be happy to help in eradicating this invasive plant.
Contact us on 01782 479 444 or complete our online contact form.
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