Japanese knotweed and other non-native plants

Japanese knotweed is a non-native invasive plant that can cause damage to concrete and create problems when selling a house. It spreads through its roots (it does not set seed in the UK), and can get out of control if not dealt with.

Other non-native plants include:

• Hogweed

• Himalayan Balsam

It is against the law to spread any non-native plant. An example would be to take a strimmer to Japanese Knotweed, as any cut pieces can sprout a new plant.

Non-native plants are classified as hazardous waste. This means that it is against the law to dispose of them with your domestic waste, or garden waste.

Please note: the recycling centres will not accept waste that contains non-native plants.