Environmental Improvement Plan
The Government's strengthened Environmental Improvement Plan includes a goal to reduce invasive species. Find out more.
Find out more
Invasive plant control: emerging research & technology
Invasive plants like knotweed, hogweed, horsetail and Himalayan balsam continue to challenge landowners across the UK. While proven methods remain essential, new research is opening the door to smarter detection and control. This guide explores how weed management is evolving, and what it could mean for commercial sites, developers and local authorities.
Find out more
Scotland’s new bill could spell trouble for construction & development
This article has been reviewed by our invasive weeds expert: Darren Greatbatch, Specialist Advisory Manager, Amenity & Invasive Weeds, at Environment Controls. Last reviewed on 5th November 2025. Table of Contents A new era for biodiversity in Scotland What the Biodiversity Strategy Bill is trying to achieve Why invasive species are central to the new…
Find out more
What does Giant hogweed look like
Packed with pictures and information helping you to identify the key characteristics of this invasive plant and what it looks like through the seasons.
Find out more
You might bring more home from your walk than you think
In this article we highlight Scotland’s new Biodiversity Bill and how it could reshape the way invasive plants are managed.
Find out more
Scotland’s new Biodiversity Bill signals tougher action on invasive species
In this article we highlight Scotland’s new Biodiversity Bill and how it could reshape the way invasive plants are managed.
Find out more
What construction companies ask about contaminated ground removal
For construction or development, these are the most common asked questions that sit right at the intersection of environmental compliance, site safety - and project viability.
Find out more
Asbestos and invasive plants removal
On this contract the discovery of asbestos in soils, made ground, manholes and underground pipes, made this project more challenging.
Find out more
What Councils ask about Amenity Weed Management
How do councils manage amenity weeds? Discover the key questions local authorities ask and how to deliver compliant, eco-friendly control.
Find out more
What Surveyors Must Know About Invasive Weeds
Learn what surveyors must know about invasive weeds; the legal risks, and best practice for protecting property and compliance.
Find out more
Local Authorities & Invasive Weeds
Discover local authorities’ legal responsibilities for invasive weed control under UK law, and how proactive management prevents costly claims.
Find out more
The hidden cost of invasive plants
Invasive plants such as Japanese knotweed, bamboo, Himalayan balsam and Giant hogweed are spreading rapidly across the UK – yet many landowners still underestimate the financial and legal impact of ignoring them. From costly excavation projects to reduced property value and mortgage refusals, this article explores why early detection and professional management are essential to protect your land and investment.
Find out more
How to remove Japanese rose
In this blog we answer some of your most common queries about the Japanese rose plant, helping to highlight the important issues around its spread and control.
Find out more
Himalayan Balsam: How to spot and treat it through the seasons
Learn how to identify Himalayan balsam in spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Discover how fast it spreads and the best time to treat this invasive plant in the UK.
Find out more
How to remove Himalayan balsam
Experts explain the best methods to control or get rid of Himalayan balsam, plus some surprising facts about this invasive plant!
Find out more
How to identify Horsetail
Learn how to identify Field horsetail throughout the seasons and differentiate it from other similar species.
Find out more
How to remove Horsetail
Find out how to remove Horsetail, and why calling on professional help is advisable.
Find out more
FAQs about Giant hogweed removal
Here we answer the most common asked questions about the toxic invasive plant - Giant hogweed.
Find out more
Is autumn a good time to treat Giant hogweed?
Find out how to get rid of Giant hogweed, and why autumn is an important season to take action and eradicate this toxic plant.
Find out more
What does Giant hogweed look like in Autumn?
This article explains the key features that identify Giant hogweed in autumn and why it's important to control this invasive plant.
Find out more
Good Neighbours Solve bamboo encroachment together
Once established, invasive bamboo is incredibly difficult to fully remove unless both sides of the boundary are treated together. This blog and case study explains why.
Find out more
GroundsFest Panellist – Darren Greatbatch
Our Amenity & Invasive weeds expert Darren Greatbatch will be speaking on HortWeek's Integrated weed management: realities vs. government goals panel at GroundsFest.
Find out more
The Amenity Team Grows!
Our amazing Amenity Weed Management Team has expanded - say hello to our newest members, and learn about our herbicide reducing system.
Find out more
Bamboo and Japanese knotweed removal
This contract involved two prominent invasive species; Bamboo and knotweed. See how we cleared this riverside site.
Find out more
Common species of Horsetail
Horsetail is a tough plant and equally tough to get rid of. In this article we show the three most common species of Horsetail, and what makes them different.
Find out more
Innovative Amenity weed control with less herbicide and water usage
NEWS: Discover our new amenity weed management system, designed in-house, that reduces water, chemical and plastic usage.
Find out more
Multi-contaminant ground removal service
Invasive plants and asbestos in soils can be removed at the same time - we're licensed to remove both - the ideal solution for construction and development.
Find out more
Why horsetail must be removed before construction works
In this blog experts explain why failing to identify and manage invasive plants like Horsetail before construction can lead to several complications.
Find out more
Which type of Bamboo is worse?
Bamboo is rapidly becoming an problem in the UK, but which type of Bamboo causes the most damage? Find out in this blog.
Find out more
Shallon – a threat to UK woodlands
This vigorous, evergreen perennial shrub is becoming an increasing threat to lowland forests across the UK. Discover how it can be controlled.
Find out more