Identify these non-native invasive plants, learn why to minimize knotweeds, and how to do so — timing, technique, and resources. With consistency and cooperation, control of knotweed in NW Pennsylvania is possible — please get involved!
Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) degrades water quality, native habitat, and reduces property values due to its perennial, spreading habit. Japanese Knotweed ruptures through concrete and foundations, and in some countries (e.g. Britain), render afflicted properties unsellable. The three varieties of Japanese Knotweed in Pennsylvania contribute nothing to our ecosystem, but can all be dealt with in the same way: consistent chemical treatment over several years or seasonal sessions. Once under control, landowners should overplant with competitive native plants, and continue monitoring and maintenance.
Useful links and contact information for our presenters, who can advise on or perform Japanese Knotweed control:
- Backpack Sprayer Calibration information
- Japanese Knotweed information
- Art Gover, Fruittown Land Stewardship Services – fruittownlss @ gmail.com
- Jim Davis, Vegetation Managers, Inc. – https://vegetationmanagersinc.com
- Emily Weaver, Penn State Extension – enw114 @ psu.edu
This video was produced in conjuction with the Penn State Extension Renewable Natural Resources Team and funded by a grant from the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. Filmed and edited by Wild Excellence Films, who also partially donated services. Thank you to all involved for supporting this project!