A Romsey-based company has published its advice on how to deal with invasive plants.

Japanese Knotweed Ltd has shared that invasive plants are increasingly becoming a common sight in most British landscapes, popping up in both urban and natural environments.

An unnoticed problem, these plants, left unchecked, challenge native species and can cause extensive damage.

According to the press release, dated April 23, invasive plants are found everywhere, and no area in the UK is free from some level of infestation.

From city centres, suburbs, country villages to remote mountains, invasive plants like Himalayan balsam, Ragwort, Goat’s rue and aquatic weeds like Floating pennywort and Curly water weed are in constant bloom.

These invaders thrive in different environments, with some preferring woodlands or arid conditions, others needing to be in or near water, and some just content to overpopulate anywhere.

One notable berserk beauty is the Buddleia, profusely flourishing along railway track lines.

Another hardy one, the Field horsetail, is unapologetic about taking over residential properties, making it challenging to remove.

The company highlights the significance of early detection, urging residents to be careful and seek professional help in identifying, controlling, or removing these invasive plants before they spread.

For instance, a timely professional survey of emerging plants like the Giant hogweed can prevent unnecessary disputes from neighbours, as well as meet any legal implications head-on.

Japanese Knotweed Ltd warns that non-native invasive plants in the UK are dangerously proliferating.

More than half of the country's plant species are from other parts of the world, which threaten and displace native ones.

They highlight the sad circumstance of the aquatic weed Crassula Helmsii taking over a complete water system and annihilating the natural balance, underlining the dire need to protect native species.

In terms of regulation, the company acknowledges the existing laws such as the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, which contain measures aimed at controlling these invasive species.

They are further calling for action from all sectors, from government to individuals in safeguarding the environment from invasive species.

Finally, the company provides suggestions for vigilance about invading species on one's property, prevent spreading them, and get any suspect plants professionally identified.

By being cautious and responsible, the public can help suppress the domination of these undesirable invaders, in a stride to protect its native species.