City of Powell River is working to get the community knotweed-free on public and private properties.
Knotweed is one of the 100 worst invasive plant species. Its roots have even been known to make their way through concrete. Removing it will be a multi-year undertaking.
According to a media release, the city has prepared options for removing knotweed on residents’ property:
• Cut the plant off about two inches above the ground
• Slide a long strong wire down the hollow stem and pierce several stem segments. The wires are available for free by calling 604.485.8635.
• Use Roundup (available at local garden supply centres) and spray the fresh cut and in the hollow stem. Follow all precautions on the container label
• Break up the tops and bag them if there is a small amount, or lay on a tarp if there is lots
• The knotweed will regrow within a couple of months. Once regrowth hits about three-quarters of an inch in diameter, follow the same procedure as above. Continue until regrowth stops. Alternately, spray the new small leaves with Roundup
• If residents are not comfortable with this method, they can hire a local landscape contractor for assistance
• Any attempt to dig out knotweed will loosen up the soil, allowing it to regrow stronger and become more established. It will regrow from any missed segment of root. In the end, it will require more herbicide to eliminate it
For an instructional video on removing knotweed, go to youtube.com/watch?v=rdYX1kLo0QI&feature=youtu.be.
The city will pick up knotweed tops from homeowners and dispose of them for free. For more information, call 604.485.8635.
