Article 8 \u00e2\u20ac\u201c Japanese Knotweed<\/p>\n
Thus far in this series, we have dwelled on the typically slow moving, passive influences on a building\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s structure such as\u00c2\u00a0rising damp and wet rot. Now, we look at an active, living, fast growing influence which has gained some considerable notoriety in the last few years \u00e2\u20ac\u201c Japanese Knotweed.<\/p>\n
Identifying Japanese Knotweed<\/p>\n
Also known as Fallopia Japonica, the plant is a fast growing perennial with tall, dense stems which die back in the winter and re-grow from deep-rooted rhizomes (underground stems) in the early summer.<\/p>\n
In summer time, the plant can grow up to 2.1m tall, with shovel shaped leaves up to 14cm in length. The stems are bamboo-like in appearance and typically a reddy hue.<\/p>\n
What\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s the problem?<\/p>\n
In Japan, the plant is found on the slopes of volcanoes \u00e2\u20ac\u201c where the ash and hot climate keep the plants small. When transferred into the temperature British climate, however, it is able to grow unabated.<\/p>\n
At its fastest growth rate, Knotweed can grow at up to 20cm (8 inches) a day. It has no natural predators and the ferocity of its expansion is such that native plants are outcompeted and consumed.<\/p>\n
Difficult to believe?\u00c2\u00a0Check out this video:<\/p>\n