Japanese knotweed is a serious problem.
Many homeowners get lulled into a false sense of security about it during winter.
Read on to find out why…
Is Japanese knotweed common in winter?
Japanese knotweed goes dormant during the winter. This means that it’s unlikely to grow from scratch during this period.
However, this doesn’t mean homeowners are safe in winter…
How to spot Japanese knotweed during the winter
During the colder months, the appearance of Japanese Knotweed changes slightly.
It loses its leaves and flowers. Because of this, its brown canes become more visible.
Can Japanese knotweed grow throughout winter?
No, Japanese Knotweed doesn’t grow during the winter. It enters a period of dormancy during this time.
This doesn’t mean it is dead – its underground rhizomes (horizontal stems that sprout lateral shoots) are still alive.
Once the weather gets warmer in spring, it starts to grow again.
Does winter slow down the growth speed of Japanese knotweed?
Winter stops the growth of Japanese knotweed altogether.
Many people make vital use of this time if they can.
Should I search for Japanese knotweed during winter?
Winter is an excellent time to search for Japanese knotweed.
It can’t damage property during this time, but as with all house pests, prevention is better than cure.
The plant’s brown canes become more visible during this season. It’s often easier to assess the situation during this period and harder to mix it up with plants that look similar.
Remember that most experts recommend that you do regular checks for Japanese Knotweed, regardless of the season.
So, you shouldn’t wait all year long to search for it in winter. If you’re reading this in spring, why not look for it now, as well!
Is winter a good time to treat Japanese knotweed?
Yes, winter is an excellent time for assessment and preparation. You should bring in a qualified expert to assess the situation.
They can then make a clear management plan, including herbicide treatments for you during spring.
