Japanese Knotweed isn't the only invasive weed to keep an eye out for in your garden.
Merseyside is home to some of the areas that have been hit hardest by the invasive plant, with St Helens perhaps the worst for the weed throughout the county. The environment agency said it was "indisputably the UK's most aggressive, destructive and invasive plant."
Those selling their homes are required by law to disclose if their property has been affected by the plant. However there is another relatively common weed that homeowners and prospective buyers should look out for, which can also lead to fines costing thousands if not properly disclosed.
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Homeowners and those looking for a new home should also look out for Spear Thistle, a noxious plant that can be highly invasive and can spread in a similar way to Japanese Knotweed.
It is illegal to allow the weed to grow in your garden. A notice may be served to anyone whose property contains Spear Thistle, telling them to take action to prevent its spread. If action is not taken, then a fine can be issued, which can cost thousands.
Priority is given to those instances where the weed is a threat to land where horses and other livestock graze, as well as farmland and areas of other agricultural activity – so for those living in suburbs and estates there might be no problem. However, you may be forced to act if a complaint is put in about the weed on your property.
The Weeds Act 1959, which enforces this law, also names four similar weeds which an eye should be kept out for. These are creeping or field thistle, curled dock, broad-leaved dock and ragwort.
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