Gardening expert Graham Rice has shared the invasive species of plants people should be on the look out for in their garden – as some can prove to be very costly
A gardening expert has warned green-fingered Brits about invasive species that could wreak havoc in their gardens, spreading as rapidly as the notorious Japanese knotweed.
A variety of non-native plants can proliferate swiftly if left unchecked, causing chaos for those nurturing their cherished green spaces. Some are as simple to eradicate as yanking them out by hand, while others require a bit more elbow grease to ensure they don’t return.
Several can even knock thousands off house prices if allowed to run wild, with many capable of growing dozens of feet unchecked. Gardening expert Graham Rice revealed some of the culprits to watch out for:
Water ferns
Those with garden ponds should watch out for water ferns which is spread by spores carried by the wind. They can extend up to 12 inches deep.
Hollyberry cotoneaster
Once known as a desirable plant to have in one’s garden, it is a small deciduous shrub belonging to the Rosaceae family. However its berries are attracted by birds which spread it into the wild, where it can be an invasive species.
Tree of heaven
This is designated as a noxious weed and secretes toxins which can kill off the other plant life around it. The plant has the potential to grow nearly 50ft within 25 years, eventually reaching 89ft.
New Zealand pygmy weed
The plants arrived in the UK from New Zealand in the 1950s and grows all year round.
Giant Hogweed
Giant Hogweed can cause rashes and blisters, with its sap making people’s skin sensitive to UV light.
Rhododendron
Growing usually in woodland, it is believed to cover three per cent of Britain’s forests. They often smother wild flowers and smaller plants.
Virginia Creeper
A climbing plant native to northern America, the virginia creeper can grow to 65ft.
Spanish bluebell
It grows vigorously and stops smaller plants from reaching light and space.
Himalayan balsam
It is described a policeman’s helmet and brought to our shores in 1839 – the same as dreaded Japanese knotweed. It is on the EU’s list of Invasive Alien Species of Union Concern.
