We are often asked by worried customers whether they are breaking the law by having Japanese knotweed growing on their land.

The straightforward answer is no, but if you allow it to encroach onto a neighbouring property, then you are leaving yourself wide open to a criminal prosecution that could become very expensive indeed.

The latest research by Environet, published this week, shows that due to mortgage lenders’ strict requirements that Japanese knotweed infestations are professionally dealt with in order for a property to be purchased, the UK’s most invasive plant will be brought under control by 2040.

Protecting your home and its value, as well as getting ready for spring growing are all reasons you may want to tackle Japanese knotweed removal in winter.