The Property Care Association (PCA) has issued a warning to residents in Keighley and surrounding areas, highlighting the risk posed by invasive non-native plants (INNPs) such as Japanese Knotweed.
The PCA has outlined three key steps to help reduce the spread of INNPs: knowing your nursery and checking plant labels, seeking professional support for identification and removal, and ensuring proper disposal of contaminated soil and plant material.
Japanese Knotweed(Image: Property Care Association)
Daniel Docking, technical manager of the PCA’s Invasive Weed Control Group, said: “While experienced gardeners have a keen eye for plant species, there are many plant families, such as gunnera, rhododendron and bamboo, that have ornamental and invasive varieties which can be confusing.”
Sarah Garry, chief executive of the PCA, added: “Gardeners and homeowners have a key role to play in asking contractors about the responsible and compliant disposal of contaminated soil as well as demonstrating demand for improved plant labelling to help remove horticultural pathways for INNPs.”
The PCA is also calling on the Government to support biosecurity efforts by promoting environmentally friendly remediation options and improved consumer labelling.
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