Japanese Knotweed is an invasive, destructive plant that is banned in Britain. It’s presence through out England, decreases property values and it has now become illegal to deal with on your own. Government intervention is actually required. It is also a problem in Canada. It has been for years.
Here in Toronto, it has been reported about for a few decades. The City of Toronto & Provincial Government provide information about how to identify and deal with outbreaks of this tenacious plant. Every Gardener knows about it, but every once and awhile a novice gardener will come across it and be charmed by it’s attractiveness.
While we were out of our home during it’s rebuild, a patch started growing along our property boundary. I knew it was there, but as our elderly neighbour is dead set against allowing us to build a fence, I thought the visual buffer would make a better barrier than nothing at all. We need privacy and some kind of blockade to prevent the home owner’s adult children from entering our yard.
One morning, from my side only, I removed all stalks of this monster and covered the base of growth – with thick plastic. I’m determined to educate others too.
Later, I heard a rather loud and animated tantrum about the destruction of an entire Bamboo Grove, spewing from the other side of the yard. Clearly they knew nothing of this plant – hence this posting to inform others.
Japanese Knotweed is not a valuable plant. It is a recognized invading species that clearly needs more attention, Unfortunately, it is not a replacement for a honking ten foot fence, but alas a homeowner can dream! <grin
UPDATE: In May 2016 more Japanese knotweed seedlings were added to our neighbour’s property, even after information about it’s potential – was provided.
Because it was an act of aggression and also because I was concerned that the growth would become out of control – I contacted the City of Toronto and they visited, explained the dangers of this plant and insisted all Japanese Knotweed to be removed.
This may very well be, one of the first City of Toronto- Enforced removals of Japanese Knotweed.
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