Legal implications of Bamboo encroachment
Think bamboo is harmless? Discover the legal implications of bamboo encroachment - allowing it to spread - and how to avoid prevent costly disputes.
If you’re dealing with an invasive plant and want a permanent solution, we can help. Our specialists will survey your site, identify the species, explain your options in a clearly documented report and recommend the most effective solution for you.
We treat invasive non-native species (INNS) of all kinds across the UK. Some are a direct danger to health, others spread aggressively or are notoriously difficult to remove. Whatever you’re dealing with, our specialists will identify it and recommend the right course of action. Just send a few photos using the form.
One of the most hazardous invasive plants in the UK. Its sap reacts with sunlight and can cause severe skin burns and blistering. It grows quickly, spreads rapidly by seed and is listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Removal should always be left to trained professionals.
This aggressively growing plant can reach 3m in height and has seed pods that disperse 100s of seeds into the air when touched, making it one of the most widespread and problematic invasive weeds in the UK.
A deep-rooted plant with rhizomes that can reach well over a metre underground, making it one of the most stubborn species to control. Its waxy coating resists many treatments, so DIY attempts rarely work and often make it worse. A structured treatment programme is the only reliable route to long-term control.
We also treat Japanese knotweed, Rhododendron and a wide range of other invasive weeds. Not sure what you’ve got? Send a photo and we’ll identify it for you.
Trusted by homeowners, businesses, construction, groundworkers and developers across the UK.
Invasive plants are far more than a nuisance. Left untreated, they spread quickly, forming dense colonies that can damage land and structures, encroach onto neighbouring property and can carry legal obligations.
Some toxic plants (such as Giant hogweed and Hemlock) pose a direct risk to health. Plus – the longer they’re left, the harder and more expensive they become to deal with.
We provide professional, permanent removal across the UK for residential and commercial sites, with proven methods designed to stop regrowth for good.
When the goal is permanent removal, there are two main routes:
Herbicide Treatment – a targeted programme designed to put the plant into a dormant state with multiple herbicide applications over a period of time. The method and number of applications depends on the species and how established it is. We survey first, then advise on the best approach and provide a clear treatment plan.
Excavation – for the right species and site, excavation is the best option, this is where we dig out all parts of the plant including its full underground root system and remove it from site for permanent results. A survey lets us confirm whether excavation is the most effective option for you.
Containment – where full removal isn’t needed or practical, we control the spread instead. Barriers can be installed to stop underground growth crossing onto neighbouring land or into protected areas. The right depth and specification depends on the species, and specialist knowledge of each species’ growth lifecyle.
Combined – Often a combination of methods is best. We’ll speak to you about the benefits of this so you fully understand what is involved.
Whilst these methods of control or removal are effective either immediately or over time, it’s important to factor in managing risk of potential reinfestation. This is most important where the invasive plants are still growing nearby on another property or land area, and whilst a root barrier will stop their roots, their airborne seeds could risk reinfestation.
Ongoing treatment – most plants will need some level of managed treatment across a season or more to bring them fully under control. The duration will depend on the plant species and the level of infestation.
Monitoring – We usually include a period of monitoring into our herbcide programmes, this will be after the fianl round of treatments and may be up to 2 years, to ensure the results are effective long-term.
On this contract we were asked to get rid of Himalayan balsam, Horsetail and Hemlock water dropwort. 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.
Are invasive plants hard to remove?
For many species, yes. Plants like horsetail and Japanese knotweed have extensive underground systems, so successful removal needs specialist equipment and expertise.
What is the best way to remove invasive plants?
It depends on the plant. Permanent removal usually means either full excavation or a structured treatment programme, and the right approach comes down to the species, the size of the problem and the site itself.
Can invasive plants grow back after treatment?
Yes, if any of the underground system is left behind. This is exactly why professional treatment matters.
Are some invasive plants dangerous?
Yes. Giant hogweed can cause severe skin burns and hemlock water dropwort is highly poisonous. Neither should be handled without proper protection and expertise.
Is professional removal worth it?
Yes. Uncontrolled invasive plants spread, cause damage, create health risks and can reduce property value. Early professional intervention keeps long-term costs down.
Think bamboo is harmless? Discover the legal implications of bamboo encroachment - allowing it to spread - and how to avoid prevent costly disputes.
Learn why horsetail (marestail) is so difficult to remove and how our unique professional horsetail treatment helps homeowners, businesses and developers achieve long-term control.