At this site in Altringham, Japanese Knotweed had grown to an impressive height of approximately 2.4 meters in some areas. This invasive plant, which features small white flowers, was nearing the end of its flowering season for winter. Although the flowers produce seeds, these are not viable, as all Japanese Knotweed plants in the UK are of the same sex. In the UK, Japanese Knotweed spreads exclusively through rhizomes (roots) being transported, often due to animals like foxes or badgers digging near the plant. These animals can inadvertently break off pieces of the rhizome, carrying them on their paws and transplanting them elsewhere. Additionally, human activities, such as strimming, can also cause the spread of this weed. Alarmingly, it only takes a fragment of rhizome as small as a thumbnail to generate a new plant, emphasizing the critical need for Japanese Knotweed removal in Altringham.

This invasive species poses significant challenges for property owners, not just for their own land but also due to the risk of legal action from neighboring landowners, such as the commercial property behind this site. If the Japanese Knotweed is left untreated, there is a real possibility of being sued for encroachment, which could cost anywhere between £10,000 and £200,000. To avoid this substantial financial risk, we strongly advised the client to take immediate action by arranging for comprehensive Japanese Knotweed removal in Altringham.