Home Fix Scotland issues Japanese knotweed guidance
Japanese knotweed, which can grow up to 10cm a day during the summer months, can cause damage to adjacent buildings but also the wider neighbourhood with its roots growing as deep as 20 meters.
Inverclyde’s repairs and maintenance contractor, Home Fix Scotland, is reminding River Clyde Homes’ customers of their responsibilities in tackling invasive plants across Scotland’s central belt.
Japanese knotweed, which can grow up to 10cm a day during the summer months, can cause damage to adjacent buildings but also the wider neighbourhood with its roots growing as deep as 20 meters.
Whilst the plant is extremely difficult to treat and remove on its own, customers are being reminded of Home Fix Scotland’s new invasive plant service.
River Clyde Homes’ customers are encouraged to upload any images they believe to be of the invasive plant which will then be assessed by an environmental specialist who will reply with further guidance and, if required, removal.
Derek Robertson, Environmental Manager at Home Fix Scotland, said: “It’s really important that customers are vigilant for the signs of knotweed, particularly within the summer months, so we can act quickly.
“River Clyde Homes’ customers suspicious of any invasive plants should contact Customer Experience on 0800 013 2196 or alternatively they can fill out Home Fix Scotland’s online form.”
How to identify Japanese knotweed:
- red asparagus-like spears emerge in spring and begin to sprout pale green leaves with distinctive pink veins
- leaves which are shield or shovel shaped
- stems that resemble bamboo canes with purple speckles
- small, cream-coloured flowers developing towards the end of summer
You can search your postcode to see if your property is in a high-risk area using Environet UK’s heat-map facility available here: https://www.environetuk.com/exposed-japanese-knotweed-heat-map