25 May 2010
Japanese Knotweed Threat
Japanese Knotweed Threat
Following concerns that Japanese knotweed had been found in various locations, including the allotment car park, the Community Council contacted the County’s Invasive Species Officer for advice on how to deal with the problem.
We were informed that Japanese knotweed is listed by the World Conservation Union as one of the world’s most invasive species with stems that can grow 3-4 metres in an incredibly short time. The plant is so strong that its root system can damage foundations, buildings, paving and retaining walls. However, in the “growing season” the stems should not be cut back as this strengthens the root system and increases the spread of the knotweed.
Fortunately, the officer has agreed to include Taff’s Well and Nantgarw as part of this year's Japanese Knotweed treatment programme and have included the area of knotweed at the entrance to the allotment and the growth along the approach road to the site.
Following a site visit it has also been agreed to treat the knotweed in the following areas::
· Ty Rhiw adjoining woodland
· Cardiff Road various locations
· Taffs Well Park
· Cycle link to Nantgarw
· Sustrans Taff Trail
· Nantgarw Church Lane
· Old Caerphilly Road/Tyla Gwyn
· Coed Caedyrys
It is planned to start the treatment programme end of August finishing in October. The approach requires 3 treatments - 1 treatment a year. If all goes well next year's re-growth should only be a tenth of what it currently is and in year 3 the knotweed should be eradicated.
