Gardeners across the UK are being urged to stay vigilant this summer as nine invasive plants could lead to hefty fines if found growing in their gardens. Whether you are a passionate gardener or a casual one, failing to manage these plants could cost you thousands of pounds.
The most notorious of these plants is Japanese Knotweed, which has been recorded in more than 50,000 infestations across the UK. Known for its bamboo-like stems and small white flowers, this highly invasive species can cause significant damage to property and infrastructure. Removing it can be difficult and costly, with fines potentially reaching up to £34,000. In one case, a property owner faced a lawsuit for £200,000 after selling a home infested with the plant.
However, Japanese Knotweed isn’t the only plant that could cause problems. Garden experts have identified eight other plants that are illegal to grow, all of which carry fines ranging from £2,500 to £5,000.
Top Illegal Plants to Watch Out For:
- Japanese Knotweed
One of the most invasive plants, its removal should be handled professionally. Failure to manage it could result in fines of up to £34,000. - Spear Thistle
With its spiky leaves and purple flowers, this weed spreads quickly and can harm crops. Allowing it to grow could lead to a fine of £2,500. - Common Ragwort
Recognised by its bright yellow flowers, this toxic plant poses a threat to livestock. Fines can go up to £5,000 to allow it to spread. - Broad-Leaved Dock
Similar to spear thistle, this plant spreads rapidly and harms crops. Its broad leaves and small yellow flowers are easy to spot, and the fine for allowing it to grow is £2,500. - Curled Dock
Another fast-spreading weed, this plant has curly leaves and can cost you up to £2,500 in fines if left unmanaged. - Rhododendron Ponticum
This large, evergreen plant with pink or purple flowers is poisonous to vegetation and wildlife. It can grow to significant heights, with fines for allowing it to flourish up to £5,000. - Himalayan Balsam
While it may look attractive with its pink or purple flowers, this plant spreads rapidly. Fines for allowing it to spread can reach £2,500. - Giant Hogweed
This towering plant, with its large white flowers, is not only harmful to other plants but also poses a threat to humans. Its sap can cause severe skin burns and even permanent scarring. Fines for growing this toxic plant can go up to £5,000. - New Zealand Pigmyweed
This small green plant with tiny white flowers is invasive and harmful to aquatic environments. The sale of its seeds has been banned since 2014, and fines for growing it can be as high as £2,500.
Jack Sutcliffe, co-founder of Power Sheds, emphasised the importance of identifying and controlling these illegal plants: “Once you can identify the most common criminal plants, it’s important to prevent them from spreading as soon as possible. The easiest way to do this is by spraying them with chemicals, digging them out, or burning them.”
Homeowners are encouraged to seek professional help for dealing with invasive species, particularly Japanese Knotweed, to avoid costly fines and potential legal action. With the summer gardening season in full swing, it’s crucial to stay aware of these “criminal plants” and take action to prevent their spread.
