The Property Care Association has released a new video on invasive weed control. Through the trade body\u2019s Invasive Weed Control Group, the video gives an insight into the issue of non-native species and the risk these plants pose to the environment.<\/p>\n
Japanese knotweed is one such plant that can bring significant problems if it is allowed to take hold. Earlier this year, Network Rail was ordered to pay compensation<\/a> after the invasive weed spread from its land. This decision was heralded as a landmark change to the way in which the invasive species of plants are dealt with, as landowners could be liable for damage caused by plants growing from their land. With this in mind, understanding the major issues surrounding invasive weeds is becoming a necessity.<\/p>\n The video from the PCA provides insight into the problem. Chair Professor Max Wade offers decades of experience while outlining the latest findings in the sector.<\/p>\n Wade said: \u201cThe presence of invasive weeds can have a considerable impact in a variety of situations.<\/p>\n \u201cJapanese knotweed can devalue land and property and lead to the refusal of mortgages on properties affected by it.<\/p>\n \u201cAlong with other non-native species such as Himalayan balsam, these plants can impede flow in rivers and drainage ditches causing a rise in water flow levels, leading to flooding.<\/p>\n \u201cAnother concern is Giant Hogweed, as its extremely toxic sap presents a public health issue. If anyone comes into contact with any part the plant, followed by exposure to sunlight, they can sustain severe blistering to the skin and discomfort.<\/p>\n \u201cAs a result of their impact, it is important that advice is sought quickly to control and manage invasive weeds effectively.<\/p>\n \u201cOver the years, the PCA\u2019s Invasive Weed Control Group has provided its membership with the expertise to control and manage invasive species, offering high levels of technical knowledge and practical skill.<\/p>\n \u201cThe group\u2019s experience and best practice approach means it is well-placed to deal with the challenges ahead; offering a level headed, co-ordinated and effective means to control invasive weeds across the UK.\u201d<\/p>\n The message of the video is that while invasive weed management can be daunting, it can also be controlled with professional support.<\/p>\n Wade added: \u201cWe are taking all steps necessary to \u2018normalise\u2019 invasive weeds, so they are viewed generally as any other type of property problem, in that they can be identified and treated, with minimal impact.<\/p>\n \u201cHowever, effective eradication is a job for the experts, so it\u2019s vitally important for anyone who thinks they might have an issue to seek advice.\u201d<\/p>\n One of the services the PCA\u2019s Invasive Weed Control Group offers is a list of specialist contractors and consultants<\/a> for those seeking advice and support.<\/p>\n The association will also host its annual Invasive Weed Control conference<\/a> on 23 November at The M\u00f8ller Centre, Cambridge.<\/p>\nDecades of experience<\/h3>\n
Management<\/h3>\n