Recent research suggesting that Japanese Knotweed is incurable has come into question by a company specialising in the removal of the plant.
A study from Swansea University questioned the claim that the invasive weed could be eradicated, concluding that there are no definite ways of killing it completely using current methods.
However, the extent of the research has been put under scrutiny by Environet, who state that the research focuses almost entirely on herbicide methods of treatment, without comprehensive investigation into methods of excavation. These, the company state, are 100% effective when done properly.
Whilst Environet state that much of the University’s research reflects their own experiences in dealing with the plant, it states that the conclusion could be misleading to many as the proven methods of physical removal are not considered.
Founder and Managing Director of Environet, Nic Seal said: “Herbicide treatments remain a very effective way of controlling knotweed and reducing risk of damage to property. Excavation, on the other hand, achieves complete eradication, which is why it is growing rapidly in popularity despite the higher cost. If no viable rhizome remains in the ground there will be no regrowth and there is no risk of rhizome dormancy. In our mind that is “eradication” and it has already been achieved on many large sites throughout the UK.”
