GARDENERS have been issued a warning about binning certain plants properly – and the wrong way could leave you with a hefty fine.
Although you might not think twice about chucking out weeds and other plants from your garden, knowing how to do it right is a must.
Japanese Knotweed is known to be a total nightmare for gardening fans, but that's also the reason you need to stick to certain rules when disposing of it.
The invasive weed spreads faster than other plants and can cause serious damage to the foundation of homes, as well as surrounding walls.
Speaking to Express.co.uk, Real Estate Solicitor Ryan Cotton of LCF Law, explained why disposing of the plant properly is so important.
He said: “Though it is not illegal to have Japanese knotweed on your property, if Japanese knotweed spreads from one property to another then this could result in a right of action under private nuisance laws.
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“Moreover, a local authority can – to control or prevent the spreading of Japanese Knotweed – serve a Community Protection Notice (CPN) under section 57 of The Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 requiring measures to be undertaken to prevent spread."
Not only that, but Ryan noted that homeowners could be left with a fine of £2,500 if they fail to comply with the notice.
And you could get a fine of up to £5,000 if you dispose of the weeds and they spread in the wild.
“If the notice is not complied with, an individual could be prosecuted leading to a fine not exceeding £2,500.
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“Japanese Knotweed is considered contaminated waste and so must be disposed of accordingly," he added.
How to spot Japanese Knotweed
In spring, reddish-purpleshoots emerge from pink buds at ground level.
Then, once established, it can be recognised by its bamboo-like stems and small, white flowers.
You might also notice purple flecks along the canes and heart or shovel-shaped leaves.
Just be sure not to confuse it with Russian vines, Himalayan Honeysuckle or Red Dragon.
It’s often found in waysides, flower beds, along borders, and in between paving slabs.
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