Bamboo and other invasive plants
The most common invasive plants affecting UK homeowners, landowners, authorities, environmental agencies and businesses.
Making good land that has been disturbed through treatment is important. We will always assess and consider the impact of treatment on the environment and its natural inhabitants both flora and fauna, and where possible provide an eco-solution to help the land restore.
Invasive weeds will, by their very nature, have caused some extent of damage to the local native ecosystem where they are found, most often by out-competing and banishing our native flora. On certain projects we will consider actions to rejuvenate the land
When controlling invasive plants the treatment itself can sometimes cause damage to the local area where the plant resided, in some cases resulting in follow-on erosion of the soil no longer supported by the root structure of the remediated plants. At its worst this can result in the collapse of green structures such as verges on river banks, or ponds.
This damage can affect the habitat and its natural wildlife, and if not corrected will reduce species levels. Repopulating areas by tree planting establishes ground, captures carbon and protects the ecosystem by attracting wildlife. Trees help to improve soils and prevent flooding and erosion.
We must therefore adapt methods of treating invasive infestations that respect the biodiversity of the site.
As members of the Amenity Forum we are active in finding new ways of Invasive Weed Management (IWM). When controlling or removing invasive weeds there needs to be some consideration for rejuvenating the area after all works have been completed. Most commonly this involves looking around at the native plants and grasses in the area, and re-planting or seeding with the same. However, as not all weeds cause harm to the environment, replanting areas of damaged or unstable land with native sustainable species, such as wildflower meadows rejuvenates land via improved root systems and drainage.
This may involve re-seeding areas that were grasslands, or planting species that will encourage natural drainage. Our surveyors will assess the level of regeneration that may be required and look for the best option for that particular environment.
Since the 1930’s, the UK has lost over 99% of what we commonly call ‘unimproved grasslands’, leaving the remaining land fragmented and mismanaged. With all projects we will always look for ways to support the ecological system whilst it restores itself. We strive to leave any site in a thriving state, and with little or no loss of aesthetic value.
We ensure that no waterways are adversely affected by herbicide, and land can spring back to life, sometimes even better than before works were carried out. Tree planting helps the environment by absorbing carbon dioxide which ultimately has a positive effect on climate change. Trees also have a powerful effect on our wellbeing, something that is more and more required. Property management companies have noticed the difference well maintained green spaces have on resident and social interaction creating a stronger sense of community.