As mentioned in our earlier news article, weeds are a problem for many commercial and industrial business parks. Weeds, like Japanese Knotweed, not only can cause structural damage but they look unsightly and can make your property look unprofessional.
So how are these weeds controlled?
Often, hand-picking and removing the weeds isn't enough to keep them away, or stay on top of a weed problem.
Using a pesticide to kill the weeds is the next step.
What Is A Weed Killing Pesticide?
Normally applied using a spray, a pesticide usually contains Glyphosate, which is the active ingredient that kills a weed.
Glyphosate kills plants by interfering with the synthesis of the amino acids phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan.
In addition to the active ingredient, a pesticide also contains many other chemicals or components. These are normally referred to as surfactants.
Surfactants are compounds that lower the surface tension of a liquid, allowing easier spreading. The surfactant also reduces the tension and friction between the pesticide and the surface of the plant, which means it can cover more of the plant's surface, where it is absorbed.
Can Pesticides Kill Aggressive Plants Like Japanese Knotweed?
Whilst most commercially availably pesticides claim to be able to kill Japanese Knotweed, the reality it is very difficult to kill and then remove Japanese Knotweed.
Often, a pesticide must be directed into the plant's using a technique called stem injection. This is because plants like Japanese Knotweed have waxing coatings on their leaves that can reduce the pesticides chances of absorbing through the weed's surface.
Also, due to its complex and independent root structure, Japanese Knotweed can re-grow from even the smallest plant fragments, so extra care must be taken when removing this weed. Once it is killed, Japanese Knotweed becomes a controlled waste and must be disposed of in accordance with the law.
Are Pestices Safe To Use?
A 2009 study concluded while physiological pH decreases glyphosate uptake in animal cells; Pesticide formulations contain surfactants that increases membrane permeability allowing cellular uptake at physiological pH.
Essentially, this means industrial strength pesticides should be used by trained professionals, wearing the appropriate protective equipment.
Do You Need Specialist Training To Use Pesticides
To use pesticides in a professional capacity, a certificate of competence has to be issued by the NPTC.
Does Your Commercial Or Industrial Estate Have A Weed Problem?
As you can see from above, tackling a weed problem is not a quick fix. It is something that needs time, equipment and a degree of knowledge. If you feel your weed problem is costing your reputation and potential customers, get in touch with us and we can talk to you about developing a contract landscape maintenance programme to effectively deal with your weed problem.