Latest news with #JenniferHolmes
Daily Mirror
03-06-2025
- General
- Daily Mirror
Gardeners warned about destructive plant 'as bad as knotweed'
Gardening experts have raised concerns about this seemingly innocent-looking plant which can cause "significant damage" to buildings Buddleia might add a dash of colour to UK gardens, but these purple plants have already caused significant distress about their potential to cause considerable damage to properties. Experts fear that the plant, which is also known as the "butterfly bush", can be problematic for homeowners and some have already equated its level of threat to another notorious horticultural hazard, Japanese knotweed. Environmental Controls, a company specialising in removing invasive weeds, has warned homeowners regarding the often underestimated dangers of buddleia. Beloved for its attractive blooms, the plant is notorious for tearing through buildings, exploiting any weakness, such as cracks and fragile mortar, similar to the feared knotweed. Speaking on the matter, company spokesman Jennifer Holmes said: "Both buddleia and knotweed can cause significant damage to building structures, however buddleia is less likely to damage underground infrastructure due to its shallow root system. "Both are highly invasive and difficult to eradicate, but buddleia (unlike knotweed) can grow in hard to access areas such as roofs, guttering, window sills and walls – basically anywhere that a seed lands it can grow. Knotweed, on the other hand, requires its roots to be on the ground in order to form plants, and quickly spreads." Jennifer pointed out that buddleia's rapid growth, reaching heights up to 15 feet – dwarfing Japanese knotweed – should be of significant concern for those owning property. Despite these warnings, buddleia remains unlisted on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, thus UK residents are still at liberty to plant it in their gardens, reports Devon Live. Experts are warning homeowners to be vigilant for the aggressive plant, particularly if it's not a controlled garden plant. Keep an eye out for it sprouting from neglected corners of roofs and walls where it flourishes unnoticed, and tackle eradication before it takes root. Japanese knotweed is subject to stringent legal controls due to its invasive nature and potential to cause property damage. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, it is an offence to plant or cause Japanese knotweed to grow in the wild. Property owners are legally obliged to prevent the spread of Japanese knotweed from their land to neighbouring properties. Japanese knotweed is classified as controlled waste under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Its disposal must adhere to specific regulations to prevent environmental contamination. The presence of Japanese knotweed can impact property sales and mortgage approvals. Sellers are required to disclose its presence, and failure to do so can lead to legal repercussions. Effective management often requires professional treatment over several years. DIY removal is discouraged due to the plant's resilience and the risk of spreading.
Daily Mirror
15-05-2025
- General
- Daily Mirror
Nine things experts say never put in garden waste bin or face a fine
While regulations differ by council, there are several items typically prohibited from garden bins - and any mistakes could result in a fine or warning Residents are being warned of nine garden bin errors that might cost a pretty penny. With spring in the air luring folk to their gardens, green-thumbed Brits are urged to be mindful of what goes into their green or brown waste bins or risk fines up to £5,000 or compromising their clean record. Populating your garden receptacle with the wrong rubbish can bring about a hefty penalty, and while each council's rules vary, common prohibited items could trigger a fine or caution. If you put something in the bin that doesn't belong there, some local authorities might leave it right where it is – unemptied. A stern notice from one council reads: "If our crews report that your bin has the wrong items in it, we will not return before the next scheduled collection. You will also need to make sure you have removed the wrong items before you put it out again on your next scheduled collection." You can check your local council's website or use the bin checker to see exactly what's allowed in your area. And here's a heads-up. Garden bins are only for organic waste like grass clippings, leaves, and branches, but there are specific items to avoid putting in them. Knotweed At the top of the list of blunders is disposing of Japanese knotweed in garden bins, as this rapidly spreading invader is banned under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and tossing it incorrectly could land you in serious trouble. Failure to comply with disposal regulations can land you with a hefty £5,000 fine or even two years behind bars under the stringent Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as unruly plants take root in wild spaces. Jennifer Holmes of Japanese Knotweed Ltd cautions, "It can be easy to think that binning noxious plant material won't be noticed, but in reality, you could get caught by the council." On top of this, Holmes offered a stern warning: "If you think you have knotweed on your property, do not dig it up yourself. You'll just be encouraging the plant to spread. It is an illegal act to dispose of it yourself." Soil and compost Meanwhile, when it comes to brown bins, plants are welcome but soil or compost certainly isn't. Councils typically prohibit these because they can throw a spanner in the works for the composting process and add extra weight to collection trucks. Make sure you shake off any excess dirt from plant roots before tossing them. Food waste As for food waste, whether it's leftovers or just peels, most local authorities don't allow it in garden bins. These scraps should be placed in your kitchen caddy or grey bin - your council's guidelines will tell you which is appropriate. Mixing green waste with food scraps can be an open invitation to vermin and cause sanitation problems. Plant pots Despite the material they're made from, you can't chuck them into your garden waste bin. Whether they're plastic, terracotta, or even biodegradable options, they're all excluded. Pots, trays, and even growbags have to find a home elsewhere, not in your green waste. Plastic bags Even if marked "compostable" or "biodegradable", most plastic bags are not allowed in garden bins, as they may not break down properly during industrial composting. Instead, tip garden waste in loose or use compostable liners approved by your council if permitted. According to one council, liners, bags, or sacks can get entangled in machinery, shredding the garden waste and contaminating the compost produced. Timber or treated wood Brown bins are not for old fence panels, decking, or garden furniture. Treated wood, especially with preservatives or paint, is not considered green waste and should not be included. Rubble, hardcore, or stones Rubble, hardcore, or stones can release toxic chemicals during composting and are not suitable for brown bins. These heavy materials, including bricks, concrete, and stones, are classified as construction waste, not green waste. Including them can damage collection machinery, and most councils won't collect them in standard garden bins. Pet waste Pet waste from dogs, cats, or other animals is not allowed in garden bins, even if bagged, as it's a biohazard that cannot be safely composted. Instead, dispose of it in general waste. Some councils may accept it in biodegradable bags, but always check. Liquids or chemicals Liquids or chemicals should never be tipped into your garden bin. These can taint the entire load and pose a risk to workers and the environment. Most need to be taken to specific waste disposal centres. It's crucial to remember that rules can differ between local authorities. A good rule of thumb is if you're unsure, don't bin it. Instead, visit your local council's website or use the bin checker to find out exactly what's permitted in your area.
Wales Online
15-05-2025
- General
- Wales Online
Nine things you should never put in your garden waste bin or face a fine
Nine things you should never put in your garden waste bin or face a fine With warmer weather luring homeowners back outside, gardeners are being urged to think twice before filling up their green or brown bins during a garden spruce-up Bunging anything into garden waste bins is a bad idea and could lead to big fines - or it going uncollected (Image: Getty ) Households are being cautioned about nine potential garden bin blunders that could result in a hefty fine. With the warmer weather enticing homeowners back outdoors, garden enthusiasts are being advised to think carefully before filling their green or brown bins during a garden tidy-up. Incorrectly disposing of certain types of rubbish in your green or brown garden bin could lead to fines of up to £5,000 or even a criminal record. While regulations differ by council, there are several items that are typically prohibited and any mistakes could result in a fine or warning. Some councils will just leave your full bin in the street if it contains prohibited items - others may decided to prosecute. One council's advice says: "If our crews report that your bin has the wrong items in it, we will not return before the next scheduled collection. You will also need to make sure you have removed the wrong items before you put it out again on your next scheduled collection." You can check your local council's website or use the bin checker to see exactly what's allowed in your area. Here are nine items you should never discard in your garden bin this summer. Japanese knotweed This tops the list of costly mistakes, as this fast-growing invasive plant is banned from being disposed of in your garden bin. This aggressive species is categorised as controlled waste under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and incorrect disposal could lead to serious penalties. Failure to adhere to the rules could result in a £5,000 fine or up to two years in prison under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 if the plant spreads into the wild. Jennifer Holmes, from Japanese Knotweed Ltd, warned: "It can be easy to think that binning noxious plant material won't be noticed, but in reality, you could get caught by the council." Furthermore, not having knotweed disposed of under UK legislative rules means you're harming the environment. Article continues below She further advised: "If you think you have knotweed on your property, do not dig it up yourself. You'll just be encouraging the plant to spread. It is an illegal act to dispose of it yourself." Soil or compost While plants may be welcome in the brown bin, their roots must be clean. Most councils ban soil or compost as it can contaminate the composting process and weigh down collection trucks. Shake off as much earth as possible from roots before binning plants. Food waste (cooked or raw) Even peelings and fruit scraps are usually not allowed. Garden bins are typically for green waste only and food scraps belong in your kitchen caddy or grey bin, depending on your council's setup. Mixing the two can attract pests and create hygiene issues. Plant pots Regardless of whether they're plastic, ceramic or biodegradable - it doesn't matter. Pots, trays and growbags can't go in garden bins. They need to go in general waste or recycling, depending on the material and council policy. They're considered non-organic contamination. Plastic bags Even "compostable" or "biodegradable" bags are usually banned from garden bins, as they often don't break down properly in industrial composting. Always tip garden waste in loose or use council-approved compostable liners if allowed. One council said: "Liners, bags or sacks - they get entangled in the machinery that shreds the garden waste, and the shredded plastic also contaminates the compost which is produced." Timber or treated wood Old fence panels, decking and garden furniture can't go in your brown bin. Wood is not the same as green waste especially if it's treated with preservatives or paint. Rubble, hardcore or stones Materials that can release harmful chemicals when composted, such as rubble hardcore or stones, are not to be included. These heavy garden leftovers like bricks, concrete and stones are categorised as construction waste, not green waste. Most councils won't collect these in standard garden bins, and including them can damage collection machinery. Pet waste Pet waste, including dog and cat waste (even if bagged), is prohibited from garden bins. It's a biohazard, can't be safely composted, and must be disposed of in general waste. Some councils accept it in special biodegradable bags but always check. Liquids or chemicals Liquids or chemicals should never be poured into your garden bin. These can contaminate the entire load and are dangerous for workers and the environment. Most need to go to special waste disposal centres. It's important to note that rules will vary between local authorities. Article continues below A general rule to go by is if in doubt, don't chuck it out. Instead, head to your local council's website or use the bin checker to see exactly what's allowed in your area.
Scottish Sun
13-05-2025
- General
- Scottish Sun
The 9 garden bin mistakes that could land you with a £5k fine when sprucing up outdoors this summer
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) HOUSEHOLDS are being warned to avoid nine garden bin mistakes that could land them a hefty fine. With warmer weather luring homeowners back outside, gardeners are being urged to think twice before filling up their green or brown bins during a garden spruce-up. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 Homeowners have been warned to check twice before chucking garden waste into their green bins Tossing the wrong rubbish into your green or brown garden bin could cost you up to £5,000 or even a criminal record. While rules vary by council, there are several items that are commonly banned and slipping up could see you slapped with a fine or warning. You can check your local council's website or use the bin checker to see exactly what's allowed in your area. Here are nine things you should never dump in your garden bin this summer. Japanese knotweed Topping the list of costly errors is Japanese knotweed, a fast-growing invasive plant you're banned from dumping in your garden bin. The aggressive species is classed as controlled waste under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and if it's disposed of incorrectly, you could face serious penalties. Failing to follow the rules could see you hit with a £5,000 fine or up to two years in prison under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 if the plant spreads into the wild. Jennifer Holmes, from Japanese Knotweed Ltd, warned: 'It can be easy to think that binning noxious plant material won't be noticed, but in reality, you could get caught by the council. "Furthermore, not having knotweed disposed of under UK legislative rules means you're harming the environment by creating more infestations – instead of getting rid of them.' She added: 'If you think you have knotweed on your property, do not dig it up yourself. You'll just be encouraging the plant to spread. It is an illegal act to dispose of it yourself.' Removing Japanese Knotweed How much does it cost? Getting rid of knotweed properly isn't cheap – and definitely not a DIY job for most. According to Checkatrade, removal costs typically range between £1,500 and £2,000, but prices can soar depending on the extent of the infestation. For larger patches, full excavation and disposal can hit £20,000, especially if the property is being sold or developed. Most professionals offer long-term treatment plans, including 10-year warranties or insurance-backed guarantees – sometimes needed for mortgages. Can I remove it myself? To do it legally and safely, you'll need to wear protective gear, follow guidance for herbicide use, and use a licensed waste centre for disposal. You must not put any knotweed in household bins. Even soil that's been in contact with knotweed is classed as controlled waste. And it can take up to five years to fully kill it off – so it's not a quick fix. Soil or compost While your plants may be welcome in the brown bin, their roots better be clean. Most councils ban soil or compost because it can contaminate the composting process and weigh down collection trucks. B&M shoppers are giving their gardens a summer glow up with £12 bargain Shake off as much earth as possible from roots before binning plants. Food waste (cooked or raw) Even peelings and fruit scraps can be a no-go. Garden bins are usually for green waste only and food scraps belong in your kitchen caddy or grey bin, depending on your council's setup. Mixing the two can attract pests and create hygiene issues. Plant pots Plastic, ceramic or biodegradable — it doesn't matter. Pots, trays and growbags can't go in garden bins. They need to go in general waste or recycling, depending on the material and council policy. They're considered non-organic contamination. Plastic bags Even 'compostable' or 'biodegradable' bags are usually banned from garden bins, as they often don't break down properly in industrial composting. Always tip garden waste in loose or use council-approved compostable liners if allowed. Timber or treated wood Old fence panels, decking and garden furniture can't go in your brown bin. Wood is not the same as green waste especially if it's treated with preservatives or paint, which can release harmful chemicals when composted. Rubble, hardcore or stones Heavy garden leftovers like bricks, concrete and stones are classed as construction waste, not green waste. Most councils won't collect these in standard garden bins, and putting them in can damage collection machinery. Pet waste Dog and cat waste (even if bagged) is banned from garden bins. It's a biohazard, can't be safely composted, and must be disposed of in general waste. Some councils accept it in special biodegradable bags but always check. Liquids or chemicals Never pour paint, fertiliser, weedkiller or any kind of liquid into your garden bin. These can contaminate the entire load and are dangerous for workers and the environment. Most need to go to special waste disposal centres. It's important to note that rules will vary between local authorities. A general rule to go by is if in doubt, don't chuck it out. Instead, head to your local council's website or use the bin checker to see exactly what's allowed in your area. What can you put in your garden bin? The rules vary by council, but in most cases, you can chuck in: Grass cuttings Leaves Twigs and small branches Cut flowers Windfall fruit Hedge trimmings Weeds (excluding invasive species) House plants (without soil)
The Sun
13-05-2025
- General
- The Sun
The 9 garden bin mistakes that could land you with a £5k fine when sprucing up outdoors this summer
HOUSEHOLDS are being warned to avoid nine garden bin mistakes that could land them a hefty fine. With warmer weather luring homeowners back outside, gardeners are being urged to think twice before filling up their green or brown bins during a garden spruce-up. 1 Tossing the wrong rubbish into your green or brown garden bin could cost you up to £5,000 or even a criminal record. While rules vary by council, there are several items that are commonly banned and slipping up could see you slapped with a fine or warning. You can check your local council's website or use the bin checker to see exactly what's allowed in your area. Here are nine things you should never dump in your garden bin this summer. Japanese knotweed Topping the list of costly errors is Japanese knotweed, a fast-growing invasive plant you're banned from dumping in your garden bin. The aggressive species is classed as controlled waste under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and if it's disposed of incorrectly, you could face serious penalties. Failing to follow the rules could see you hit with a £5,000 fine or up to two years in prison under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 if the plant spreads into the wild. Jennifer Holmes, from Japanese Knotweed Ltd, warned: 'It can be easy to think that binning noxious plant material won't be noticed, but in reality, you could get caught by the council. "Furthermore, not having knotweed disposed of under UK legislative rules means you're harming the environment by creating more infestations – instead of getting rid of them.' She added: 'If you think you have knotweed on your property, do not dig it up yourself. You'll just be encouraging the plant to spread. It is an illegal act to dispose of it yourself.' Removing Japanese Knotweed How much does it cost? Getting rid of knotweed properly isn't cheap – and definitely not a DIY job for most. According to Checkatrade, removal costs typically range between £1,500 and £2,000, but prices can soar depending on the extent of the infestation. For larger patches, full excavation and disposal can hit £20,000, especially if the property is being sold or developed. Most professionals offer long-term treatment plans, including 10-year warranties or insurance-backed guarantees – sometimes needed for mortgages. Can I remove it myself? To do it legally and safely, you'll need to wear protective gear, follow guidance for herbicide use, and use a licensed waste centre for disposal. You must not put any knotweed in household bins. Even soil that's been in contact with knotweed is classed as controlled waste. And it can take up to five years to fully kill it off – so it's not a quick fix. Soil or compost While your plants may be welcome in the brown bin, their roots better be clean. Most councils ban soil or compost because it can contaminate the composting process and weigh down collection trucks. Shake off as much earth as possible from roots before binning plants. Food waste (cooked or raw) Even peelings and fruit scraps can be a no-go. Garden bins are usually for green waste only and food scraps belong in your kitchen caddy or grey bin, depending on your council's setup. Mixing the two can attract pests and create hygiene issues. Plant pots Plastic, ceramic or biodegradable — it doesn't matter. Pots, trays and growbags can't go in garden bins. They need to go in general waste or recycling, depending on the material and council policy. They're considered non-organic contamination. Plastic bags Even 'compostable' or 'biodegradable' bags are usually banned from garden bins, as they often don't break down properly in industrial composting. Always tip garden waste in loose or use council-approved compostable liners if allowed. Timber or treated wood Old fence panels, decking and garden furniture can't go in your brown bin. Wood is not the same as green waste especially if it's treated with preservatives or paint, which can release harmful chemicals when composted. Rubble, hardcore or stones Heavy garden leftovers like bricks, concrete and stones are classed as construction waste, not green waste. Most councils won't collect these in standard garden bins, and putting them in can damage collection machinery. Pet waste Dog and cat waste (even if bagged) is banned from garden bins. It's a biohazard, can't be safely composted, and must be disposed of in general waste. Some councils accept it in special biodegradable bags but always check. Liquids or chemicals Never pour paint, fertiliser, weedkiller or any kind of liquid into your garden bin. These can contaminate the entire load and are dangerous for workers and the environment. Most need to go to special waste disposal centres. It's important to note that rules will vary between local authorities. A general rule to go by is if in doubt, don't chuck it out. Instead, head to your local council's website or use the bin checker to see exactly what's allowed in your area.
