Invasive Weeds

What are they?

The problem of invasive weeds is an issue that is facing all landowners, from the ordinary householder to large national landowners such as Network Rail.

There are many types of invasive weed species and many types of problem associated with them. Some are just a nuisance, whilst others are potentially dangerous or cause major problems when trying to control or eradicate them.

The most problematic in terms of its prevalence, resilience and cost of eradication is Japanese Knotweed but Giant Hogweed and Himalayan Balsam come close behind. Other invasive weeds include: -

• Floating pennywort - Hydrocotyle ranunculoides
• Water primroses - Ludwigia grandiflora, Ludwigia peploides, Ludwigia uruguayensis
• Australian swamp-stonecrop - Crassula helmsii
• Parrot’s-feather - Myriophyllum aquaticum
• Water fern - Azolla filiculoides
• Evergreen oak (holm oak) - Quercus ilex
• Rhododendron - Rhododendron ponticum
• Ragwort - Senecio jacobaea
• Bracken - Pteridium aquilinum
• Cord Grass - Spartina alterniflora

What UK legislation covers invasive non-native plants?

FACT: There are 1,892 non-native plants in the UK. The Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) recognised the need to control certain species of invasive plants and animals already causing a problem in the UK. Originally only Giant Hogweed and Japanese Knotweed were listed. However, in April 2010 a further 36 plants were added.

How to Get Rid of Invasive Plants?

C&F’s treatment plan will depend on the type of plant. The treatment of a terrestrial plant such as Giant Hogweed which grows on land will be very different to the treatment of Water Fern which is an aquatic plant which grows in and around water.

Experience of treating invasive aquatic plants involves consultation with the Environment Agency because of the danger of chemicals entering the water system and in some cases the herbicides available are non-selective and will kill all plants and can be a danger to wildlife.

C&F’s extensive experience with all the UK’s most invasive plants ensures that we will provide you with the most cost effective, targeted and environmentally friendly safe treatment plan available.

C&F Invasive Plant Services

• Surveys
• Identification, mapping and impact assessment on all invasive species
• Treatment and eradication
• Herbicide spray treatment and direct chemical injection
• Feasibility studies
• Consultancy only service on commercial projects – where excavations are undertaken by clients own contractors
• Warranties & management plans
• GIS mapping

To talk to a qualified and experienced specialist please email or call us on 01582 507937.