Expert advises UK homeowners to remove 3 common plants to protect garden

If you spot a new, striking bloom in your garden that you didn't plant, exercise caution, it might be an invasive species.

These aggressive growers can swiftly outcompete indigenous flora for nutrients, wreaking havoc on local ecosystems and adversely affecting native wildlife. Celebrated horticulturist and 'Love Your Garden' co-host David Domoney has issued a warning about certain plants that could spell disaster for your green space.

On his website, David said: "Many non-native plants have enhanced our gardens in Britain, but a small selection of them are highly invasive which threatens habitats of wildlife and other plants. By keeping an eye out for the following plants that are commonly found in the UK and getting a hold of them early, it reduces the risk of them damaging your glorious garden."

But the threat isn't just to your garden's health; there are legal risks too, reports the Express. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981, allowing certain invasive plants to spread beyond your garden can lead to hefty fines or other legal consequences in the UK.

David has highlighted some of the most prevalent invasive non-native species to be vigilant of and offers advice on how to eliminate them from your garden.

Giant Hogweed

This plant is easily identifiable by its cluster of umbrella-shaped white flowers and deeply lobed leaves, which bear a resemblance to oversized parsley.

If you spot giant hogweed in your garden, it's crucial to tackle the issue promptly as its sap is highly toxic and can cause severe burns on human skin, with effects that may persist for several months.

David said: "These weeds are tall with thick, bristly stems that are topped with white flowers facing upwards and can grow up to 10 feet high. Giant hogweed was first introduced to Britain and Europe from the Caucasus Mountains in the 19th Century."

Due to the hazardous nature of giant hogweed, it's advisable to enlist a professional for removal rather than attempting to do it yourself, given the plant's poisonous characteristics.

Japanese Knotweed

Regarded as one of the UK's most problematic invasive species, Japanese knotweed can thrive in tough conditions, posing a significant threat to structures like walls, fences, and roofs if not addressed swiftly.

The alarming aspect of Japanese knotweed lies in its capacity to disperse through the wind, requiring only a minuscule fragment to start proliferating rapidly.

David said: "They are fast-growing weeds with tall, dense bamboo-like stems that produce leaves that are shovel-shaped and can grow up to 14cm in length. This invasive plant has an extensive and strong root system, which is how the plant spreads as they don't produce seeds."

To effectively eradicate Japanese knotweed, it's essential to excavate it thoroughly at the roots and ensure all remnants are completely eliminated, as even a small leftover piece can regenerate.

Rhododendron ponticum

Rhododendron ponticum, with its vibrant flowers and large dark green leaves, may appear aesthetically pleasing, but it poses a significant threat to local flora and fauna.

This plant is notorious for its thick, dense foliage that penetrates the soil and obscures light, effectively suffocating nearby vegetation.

Moreover, the leaves and nectar of this species are toxic to wildlife, endangering bumblebees, birds, butterflies, and even household pets if the plant is not managed in domestic gardens.

David said: "The beautiful mauve, funnel-shaped flowers may look pretty, but they have an adverse impact on wildlife. It was found that the number of earthworms, birds and plants in the area was lower as a result of the presence of this intrusive shrub."

Eliminating rhododendron ponticum is notoriously difficult due to its rapid growth; therefore, the recommended approach is to initially treat the stems with a herbicide for containment before consulting experts for complete eradication.