Japanese knotweed is indestructible, find researchers

THERE is no way to get rid of Japanese knotweed, a major trial of 19 methods over three years has concluded.

Researchers from Swansea University conducted the world’s biggest study into the weed at sites in Taff’s Well, near Cardiff, and in Swansea.

But despite using various chemical solutions, physical projects and a mixture of both, scientists found no definite ways of killing the invasive plant completely using current methods.

Prof Dan Eastwood said: “We began focusing on knotweed at a time when there was a great deal of hysteria surrounding it. At the time, most information was largely based on anecdote. This led to the prospect of unscrupulous companies offering expensive and ineffective treatment.”

Dr Dan Jones, founder of a consultancy that solves complex and invasive plant problems, said: “Off the first three years of data, we’ve found that eradication is not possible. Hopefully in the long term we may move towards that by using new chemicals.”

Dr Jones said the best chemical to control the knotweed was glyphosate – but the herbicide is feared to pose a risk to wildlife.