Japanese knotweed can pose an issue for gardeners across the country, with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) now offering their advice on the best way to treat the plant

Keen gardeners who are aiming to treat or dig out the Japanese knotweed themselves have been warned the plant is very penetrating, meaning success is far from assured. Another issue arises from the plant being classified as 'controlled waste', therefore requiring careful disposal at a licensed landfill site.

The RHS is now highlighting the role of professional companies in offering Japanese knotweed removal, who can offer feedback on risk for mortgage purposes along with suggested treatment plans and can also offer insurance-backed guarantees to customers, allowing them to sell the property and protecting them against encroachment claims from neighbours.

Nic Seal, Founder and MD of Japanese knotweed removal firm Environet, said: "The spread of Japanese knotweed across the UK is now unstoppable and individuals must take responsibility and act quickly if it appears on their land. While keen gardeners may wish to have a go at tackling knotweed themselves, the truth is that DIY attempts are very rarely successful, making future treatment by professionals more difficult."

"However for those gardeners that decide to try themselves, we can review the efficacy of any treatment they carry out and, if required, provide them with further treatment and monitoring, along with an insurance-backed guarantee to satisfy any future buyer and their lender."