How to identify Japanese knotweed through different seasons in the UK
Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) can be difficult to identify in the winter, as the plant dies back to the ground and the foliage becomes dormant. However, there are still several signs that can help to identify the plant during the winter months:
- Persistent bamboo-like canes: Japanese knotweed canes can reach up to 3 meters tall and are hollow with purple speckles. They can remain standing through the winter even though the plant is dormant.
- Knotweed crowns: The plant’s crown (where the leaves attach to the stem) can be found just below the soil surface in the winter, and can resemble a brown, woody mass.
- Rhizomes: The plant’s rhizomes (underground roots) can be found just below the soil surface in the winter, and can resemble a thick, woody mass.
- Knotweed nodes: The nodes or internodes on the stem can be found just below the soil surface in the winter.
It is important to note that many plants can resemble Japanese knotweed, so it is important to consult a professional for a definitive identification. It is also important to remember that even if the plant is dormant, it is still capable of spreading and should be removed and disposed of properly.
Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) can be easier to identify in the spring, as the plant begins to grow and produce new foliage. Here are some signs that can help to identify the plant during the spring months:
- Rapidly growing bamboo-like canes: Japanese knotweed canes can reach up to 3 meters tall and are hollow with purple speckles. They will begin to appear as soon as the ground temperature reaches about 5°C.
- Large, heart-shaped leaves: The leaves of Japanese knotweed are large, green, and heart-shaped, and can grow up to 14 centimetres long. They will begin to appear on the canes in early spring.
- White or pinkish flowers: Japanese knotweed produces small, white or pinkish flowers that grow in clusters along the canes. These flowers will appear in late spring to early summer.
- Thick, dense stands: Japanese knotweed can form thick, dense stands that can quickly outcompete native vegetation.
It is important to note that many plants can resemble Japanese knotweed, so it is important to consult a professional for a definitive identification. Even though the plant is easier to spot in the spring, it is still capable of spreading and should be removed and disposed of properly.
Contact Japanese Knotweed Elimination Ltd today for a free, no obligation identifying service.