Latest news with #Gianthogweed
Daily Record
29-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Public warned about the dangers posed by toxic Giant Hogweed plants
The invasive non-native plant can cause severe blistering on the skin if exposed to UV light - and can be particularly harmful to children. A national trade body is calling on the public to remain alert to the hazards posed by a dangerous invasive plant that could cause harm during the summer months. The Property Care Association (PCA) is highlighting the issues linked to Giant Hogweed, citing serious public health risks. The invasive non-native species produces highly poisonous sap, posing a significant threat to public wellbeing. Any contact with Giant Hogweed combined with UV light exposure – including natural sunlight – can result in serious discomfort and painful skin blistering. Daniel Docking, Technical Manager of the Property Care Association's Invasive Weed Control Group, said: "It's important to make the public aware of the presence of Giant hogweed, and the risks associated with exposure to it. "This is a highly invasive weed that grows vigorously and its distribution and frequency is increasing over time. "Every year there are reports of injuries affecting people who have come into contact with the plant, as it produces a skin reaction that is antagonised by exposure to sunlight. "Blisters can occur 24-48 hours after exposure and damaged skin heals very slowly. "Children can be particularly affected, as they can encounter the plant while playing outdoors in the summer. "Some cases can lead to people needing urgent medical attention, due to the severity of the blistering. "Longer-term complications can emerge too, with the condition re-occurring over a period of years. "Where this happens, the rash and the itching coming back every time the skin is exposed to UV light." The toxic plant also poses a threat to pets and wildlife. The PCA has provided guidance to help members of the public spot Giant Hogweed, which can occasionally be mistaken for Britain's native Hogweed, Cow Parsley or Hemlock plants, though these are considerably smaller and feature leaves with smoother edges. Nevertheless, the trade body strongly advises people against approaching the plant too closely when attempting to identify it. Key characteristics of Giant Hogweed Height – The most notable aspect of Giant hogweed is its enormous size. The plant can reach heights of up to five metres and boasts a stem measuring up to 10 centimetres across. Flowers – The plant develops large, white, umbrella-like flower clusters, with individual umbels capable of generating 50,000 seeds each. Leaves – A distinctive trait of Giant Hogweed is its dramatically jagged foliage, which can extend up to three metres in length. Markings – Giant hogweed's stem typically displays patchy purple blemishes. Coarse bristles are also present on the stem and beneath the leaves. Daniel added: "As well as the health issues, Giant hogweed is a major concern from an ecological point of view too, so it is really important that its growth is contained. "The huge size of the leaves cuts-off any sunlight reaching the soil so there can be major changes to the local plant communities and all the invertebrates that depend on them." If you come across Giant Hogweed on council property, it's best to report it to the local council. If it's seen on private property, you should get in touch with the landowner.
Daily Record
23-04-2025
- Climate
- Daily Record
Warning to homeowners with this type of tree in their garden
Some weeds and invasive grasses can also become highly flammable in hot, dry conditions as gardeners are told to keep a close eye on their outdoor spaces The country is set for a mini heatwave next week and while that is something to look forward to, it can also bring about issues in our gardens. And experts have warned homeowners to keep a close eye on their outdoor spaces as there will be an increased risk of fires. With temperatures expected to rise from tomorrow (Thursday April 24) and a bumper spell of sunshine and warm weather expected to last weeks, a warning has been issued to gardeners that some invasive grasses and weeds can become flammable in hot, dry conditions. It's worth keeping a close eye on the species in your garden and following a few warm weather rules to prevent any fires, said experts at Environment Controls. And they said that those with Eucalyptus trees in their gardens should pay close attention to them as they are particularly prone to drying out and posing a fire risk. Darren Greatbatch, specialist advisory manager said that other invasive plants such as Giant hogweed, Japanese knotweed, Rhododendron and Himalayan balsam become dry and brittle as their flowering season ends, and can also become a fire risk as the temperatures creep up. He said: 'These plants might look harmless, but when the heat hits, they can become a serious fire risk. "They dry out fast, especially if they've been left untreated and the stalks can ignite easily, especially if they are near fences, decking or sheds." And it's not just the fire risk, plants like Giant hogweed release toxic sap that causes skin burns, making this plant one to avoid whether in the garden or out in the countryside. The good news is that you don't need to overhaul your entire garden. There are a few easy steps you can take as the mercury rises to help keep your garden cooler and reduce the risk of invasive weeds drying out and becoming a hazard. Here are five simple garden hacks to reduce the risk of fires during the heatwave: Water early in the day Soak your garden in the early morning to lock in moisture. Midday watering is mostly wasted as it just evaporates. Add mulch A layer of bark or compost helps trap moisture in the soil and keeps roots cool. It also slows weed growth. Create shade Use garden furniture or parasols to block the sun from dry areas and overgrowth. Don't pile up garden waste Dried dead plants can quickly catch fire in the heat so it's best to get these removed rather than leaving piles of garden waste around. Certain invasive plants need to be removed by a specialist contractor – if in doubt don't bin it, ditch it or compost it – get professional advice. Tackle problem plants now If you've got invasive species, don't wait. A quick survey and treatment now could prevent a fire or a costly repair job later on.
