Project Example: Controlling Multiple invasive plants

A tailored, long-term solution for tackling multiple invasive species in a rural residential setting.

The Setting

This spacious rural property was nestled between woodland and open fields deep in the heart of Hampshire. It has beautifully maintained gardens, a large detached home, and several outbuildings including a stable block. The grounds include formal planting beds, wide patio spaces, a natural pond, and sweeping lawns. With woodland to the north and south and fields stretching westward, it’s a picturesque location – but also a prime environment for invasive species to thrive.

The Challenge

Following a comprehensive site survey, several invasive plant species were identified growing across the property, each presenting unique ecological and control challenges:

• Hemlock Water Dropwort was found around the pond fringe and planting beds, covering approximately 58m². Both mature dead stems and fresh juvenile growth were present—suggesting an ongoing risk of seed dispersal and further spread.
• Himalayan Balsam was observed in multiple clusters:
  • Along internal boundaries and woodland fringes
  • In ditch lines and near watercourses
  • Around the field perimeter and post-and-wire fencing

  These three key areas amounted to nearly 7,800m² of affected ground.

• Field Horsetail (Equisetum), often found alongside Himalayan Balsam, was discovered throughout woodland areas and scrubland to the south of the property and beyond the stables—further complicating access and treatment logistics.

Why These Species Matter

These plants are more than just unsightly. They spread aggressively and can dominate native flora if left untreated. Some, like Hemlock Water Dropwort, are highly toxic and pose a real risk to people and animals. Others, like Field Horsetail, have deep, resilient rhizome networks that make them notoriously difficult to eradicate.

Because the visible growth is often only a portion of the real issue, our treatment approach needed to plan for below-surface contamination and future emergence in surrounding soil.

The Solution

The homeowners chose a proactive approach – contracting us to deliver a 5-year herbicide treatment plan to manage and control the invasive species across the site. The plan includes:

• Timed herbicide applications tailored to each plant’s lifecycle
• Risk-managed operations for dealing with the toxic nature of Hemlock Water Dropwort, including full PPE and handling precautions
• Ongoing monitoring and follow-up to catch any new growth before it spreads

Our strategy for Himalayan Balsam and Hemlock Water Dropwort is focused on stopping seed production and reducing plant vitality over time. With Field Horsetail, the goal is to gradually suppress and diminish the underground rhizomes through consistent treatment – reducing recurrence with each passing season.

Looking Ahead

We’ll continue regular site visits as part of this long-term plan, adjusting tactics based on real-time growth patterns and regrowth areas. With vigilance and persistence, this once-infested rural retreat will be brought back under control – allowing the native landscape to thrive once more.