UK's Most Troublesome Garden Plants Revealed

Rhododendron

As spring emerges now is the prime time for trimming back old growth to make space for new life in our gardens. While we adore plants, it’s important to be able to identify those that could be invasive and not only harm the aesthetics of our homes but they can also devalue our properties by up to 20%.

Invasive plant species can devalue properties for several reasons:

1. Aesthetic Impact: Invasive plants often grow aggressively, outcompeting native vegetation and creating an unkempt appearance. This can detract from the overall beauty of the property, reducing its curb appeal and making it less attractive to potential buyers or renters.

2. Damage to Structures: Some invasive plants have extensive root systems that can damage foundations, pavement, and other structures on the property. This can lead to costly repairs and decrease the overall value of the property.

3. Legal and Regulatory Issues: In some regions, there are laws and regulations governing the control and removal of invasive plant species. Failure to address invasive plants on the property may result in fines or legal liabilities, which can reduce its market value.

Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) - Japanese knotweed is a fast-spreading weed. It dies back in winter but quickly regenerates in early summer, shooting up bamboo-like stems over 7 feet tall, suppressing other plant growth in your gardens.

Negative/Dangerous Traits:
Can reduce the value of a house by up to 20%
Roots penetrate pavements and house foundations
Impairs the growth of surrounding plants

How to remove - Seeking professional assistance is advisable for the removal of this invasive plant, but should you try to tackle it yourself, Rainbow Rubbish Removals suggest spraying or injecting the stems with approved herbicides. Repeated applications may be necessary, and typically, it requires a minimum of three years to effectively treat the knotweed.

Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) - Giant hogweed, the most dangerous invasive species in the UK, can grow taller than 10 feet. While it may look pretty, it’s advised to remove the plant as soon as you see it, as this plant poses a significant risk to individuals unaware of its harmful effects.

Negative/Dangerous Traits:
Property owners may be legally obligated to control and remove Giant Hogweed from their land to prevent its spread
Exposure to the sap can result in skin burns
There is a risk of potential blindness if the plant comes into contact with the eyes

How to remove - To control giant hogweed in your garden, London rubbish removal company suggests focusing on preventing seed formation to stop its spread. Removing the plant entirely is the most effective method. Always wear protective gear when handling the plant, and cut it just below the growing point underground. If needed, apply herbicide at the start of the growing season in May.

Poison Hemlock (Conium maculatum) - Poison hemlock is a highly toxic plant with smooth, purple-spotted stems and finely divided, fern-like leaves. It typically grows up to 6-10 feet in height. Its small, white umbrella-shaped flowers appear in clusters during the summer. This plant is infamous for its deadly poison, affecting the nervous system and often proving fatal if ingested.

Negative/Dangerous Traits:
Highly toxic to humans and animals if ingested
Can cause respiratory failure, paralysis, and death in severe cases
Often mistaken for edible plants like parsley or wild carrots, leading to accidental poisoning

How to remove - Rainbow Rubbish Removals say to always wear protective clothing when handling the plant. Dig out the whole plant, including the long taproot, (alternatively, glyphosate treatment can be used to eradicate the plant). Wash your hands thoroughly after bagging up the plant for removal. Continue to monitor the area for seedling growth.

Chinese Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis) - This is a climbing vine known for its beautiful cascades of fragrant purple flowers. However, its rapid growth and ability to smother other plants make it a nuisance in gardens, do not be fooled by this beautiful species.

Negative/Dangerous Traits:
It can cause structural damage by growing into buildings and infrastructure, de-valuing your home
It has an aggressive growth habit, which can overtake landscapes rapidly
It has an ability to strangle and kill trees and shrubs
Chinese wisteria has toxic seeds and pods, which are harmful to humans and animals if ingested

How to remove - To remove invasive wisteria safely, cut the vines close to the root and apply glyphosate or garlon to the cut stem. Dispose of cut vines properly. Alternatively, if avoiding herbicides, trim regularly until autumn or dig up the entire plant, watching for regrowth.

Green Alkanet (Pentaglottis sempervirens) - an invasive perennial with clusters of small blue flowers and rough, hairy leaves. Despite its attractive appearance, Green Alkanet can quickly spread and dominate garden beds, crowding out desirable plants.

Negative/Dangerous Traits:
It spreads extremely quickly
It can smother and kill other plants in your garden
It's hard to eradicate because its seeds remain in the soil for a long time
The hairy stems can cause skin irritation

How to remove - To remove green alkanet, pull or fork out seedlings from loose soil, ensuring you remove all roots. Keep an eye out for new seedlings near existing clumps. For established plants, dig out clumps with a border fork or spade, targeting the root system. Smothering plants with cardboard and thick organic matter or using biodegradable mulch matting can also be effective. Keep the soil covered for several years to make sure it doesn’t spread again.

Other invasive species that can devalue your property:

Rhododendron
Norway Maple Tree
Himalayan Balsam
English Ivy
Bugleweed
Russian Vine


Research carried out by London Rubbish Removals