Giant Hogweed - What are the problems and how do I control it?
What is giant hogweed and where is it found?
Giant hogweed was introduced into the UK in the nineteenth century being traced back to the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew Seed List. The plants were brought over from the Caucasus Mountains as an impressive ornamental plant, little did they know then how invasive the plant can become. Due to their large flower heads they can produce thousands of seeds which can spread and remain viable in soil for years.
This plant can be seen throughout the whole of the UK and is becoming a common sight and closely related to Common Hogweed. It can be found in gardens and allotments that are close to existing infestations, typically woodlands, heathland or common land. Giant hogweed is also commonly found near waterways, such as riverbanks, due to the fact that their seeds can fall and float down waterways.
Why should I control it?
Hogweed is an important weed to identify and control due to the health risks it poses to people. The plant contains a sap which is made up of furocoumarin which causes the skin to develop a condition called phytophotodermatitis. This causes a long-lasting mutation of melanin in the skin making it hyper-sensitive to sunlight (UV), resulting in blisters whenever the skin is exposed. This can continue for many years after the contact happens. Horrifyingly, if the sap is rubbed into eyes it can also cause temporary or permanent blindness.
Like many other invasive and non-native weeds, there are laws which make control of this plant even more of a necessity. The Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981 states that it is an offence to cause giant hogweed to grow in England and Wales. This means that home or land owners who allow it to spread from their land onto neighbouring property can result in forced removal orders or face fines under Anti-Social Behaviour Orders. This is very similar to the laws surrounding Japanese Knotweed.
What is the best control method for tackling giant hogweed?
When it comes to controlling Giant Hogweed, it is extremely important to remember to wear full PPE (coverall, mask, face shield & gloves) to ensure that you are protected from the dangers stated above. We advise that the plants are sprayed with a glyphosate weed killer such as Roundup ProActive or Gallup Biograde Amenity. The glyphosate will translocate down through the weed and tackle the root system of the plant. We suggest that all applications of weed killer using a knapsack sprayer are made with an extension lance so that you are able to easily able to spray the tall plants.
If you would like to find out more information on Giant Hogweed, take a look at our “How to Get Rid of Giant Hogweed” By Problem page.
