News & Media

It's Invasive Species Week 20th - 26th May 2024. This is an opportunity for us at Maydencroft to reflect on our year-round efforts to tackle the impact of invasive non-native species.

In spring, we start to survey Himalayan balsam so that we have enough time to remove the plants before the flowers and seeds develop in June/July. It is important not to disturb the seeds, as this can contribute to the plant's spread. Spring is also a good time to survey giant hogweed. It is crucial to start herbicide treatment before their large seed heads develop in June/July. It can take up to four years for a giant hogweed plant to flower, so we must begin controlling them as soon as we identify the leaves to prevent the plants from maturing and producing flowers and seeds.

Although Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) surveys can be conducted at any time of year, the best time to survey caterpillars is between April and June when they start emerging from their eggs and building nests. Our busiest time of year for OPM nest removal is between June and August, but we can also remove old nests later in the year. Our arboricultural teams undergo rigorous training to ensure they work in the safest and most environmentally friendly manner.

In late summer, we survey for Japanese knotweed and undertake herbicide control in September/October. Japanese knotweed begins to use energy to draw down sugars and nutrients into its root system (rhizomes) in late summer/early autumn to prepare for the winter months. Thus, herbicide applied at this time is more effectively transferred into the root system, where it has maximum impact.

During autumn and early winter, we undertake Rhododendron control, which involves cutting down rhododendron bushes to a stump and applying herbicide. Conducting the works at this time removes the risk of disturbing nesting birds in the bushes or any surrounding woodland. In late winter, we control Virginia creeper, false Virginia creeper, and Cotonester. We cut the plants to their base and apply herbicide to the cut stumps.

Our forestry team is out in woodlands all year round, identifying and advising on tree pests such as Ips typographus.

If you want to learn more about the invasive species services we offer, please visit our INNS service page: https://www.maydencroft.co.uk/service-details/2710/Invasive-species-survey-and-control.htm

Author: Lottie Wood.

Images:

Picture 1- Japanese knotweed

Picture 2- Himalayan balsam

Picture 3 - Rhododendron

Picture 4 - OPM nest