Japanese knotweed is spreading more aggressively than ever thanks to recent bouts of warm weather, expert warns
The plant, which can grow up to 10cm (4 inches) per day, is reaching its peak season.
Knotweed specialists said prolonged warm weather has created ideal growing conditions, with late August and early September being prime time for flowering.
The invasive plant is notorious for its huge roots which can stretch 3 metres (10ft) deep and towering bamboo–like stems which can tear through brickwork and concrete.
Left unchecked, it can quickly take over gardens and cause long–term damage.
Across the UK, there are now over 100,000 infestations recorded annually.
Invasive plant control experts from Japanese Knotweed Specialists have urged homeowners to identify the problem early and protect their gardens at this key time of year.
So, how can you tell if you need to take immediate action?
The experts said key indicators to look out for in summer months are white to cream–coloured flowers which grow 6 to 15cm long, with a feathery look.
Heart–shaped leaves could also be a warning sign, they said. These are broad with a pointed tip, growing alternately along the stem.
You should also look out for hollow, bamboo–like stems that are green, red or purple, they warned, which form dense thickets.
According to the specialists, Japanese knotweed affects an estimated one in 20 homes and can cut property value by up to 15 per cent.
As well as growing deep into the ground, roots can grow 7m (23ft) sideways, making it a hazard for neighbours as well.
Catching it during flowering season, when it is more visible and active, is vital, they said.
Even though stems start to die back in autumn, the underground system stays ready to regrow.
Acting in summer gives you the best chance to stop it returning and, if you suspect an infestation, they recommend calling in the specialists.
'During the summer, Japanese knotweed reaches its fastest, most aggressive stage of growth, expanding rapidly and becoming harder to control,' a spokesman for Japanese Knotweed Specialists said.
'Spotting and dealing with it at this time of year is vital to prevent serious structural damage and stop it spreading further.
'Professional expertise makes all the difference, from accurately identifying the plant to applying the right treatments to stop regrowth.
'With the right approach, it's entirely possible to bring it under control, protect your property and avoid costly consequences.'
They warned homeowners they shouldn't assume one treatment will solve the issue, as knotweed usually needs multiple treatments over several years.
Cutting, mowing or even burning the plant won't eradicate the problem, as even tiny fragments can grow.
Putting knotweed in household or garden waste can even cause new infestations, they explained.
And even though it may seem to disappear in autumn and winter, the roots can remain active.
The UK recently endured its fourth heatwave of the summer, prolonging the period of warm, dry weather.
Emily Grant, director of Environet, previously explained that knotweed's fearsome capacity for growth is being helped by climate change.
'When we first started looking at knotweed 30 years ago, it wouldn't appear until May,' she said.
'But now climate change and warmer temperatures are seeing it come through whenever the light or temperature reaches the right level – sometimes as early as February.'
JAPANESE KNOTWEED HAS BAMBOO-LIKE STEMS AND SMALL WHITE FLOWERS
Japanese Knotweed is a species of plant that has bamboo-like stems and small white flowers.
Native to Japan, it is considered an invasive species.
The plant, scientific name Fallopia japonica, was brought to Britain by the Victorians as an ornamental garden plant and to line railway tracks to stabilise the soil.
It has no natural enemies in the UK, whereas in Asia it is controlled by fungus and insects.
In the US it is scheduled as an invasive weed in 12 states, and can be found in a further 29.
It is incredibly durable and fast-growing, and can seriously damage buildings and construction sites if left unchecked.
The weed strangles other plants and can kill entire gardens.
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