Invasives 101

How Non-native plants impact your property

Our beautiful New Hampshire landscape

Knotweed-invasive, pesky, destructive and hard to remove

NCIS is dedicated to slaying invasive knotweed!

Understanding Invasive Species

What Are Invasive Species? Invasive species are nonnative plants that can harm humans, the economy, and the environment. They are like the bullies of the plant world. For example, Japanese knotweed, a bamboo-like plant introduced to the U.S. for landscaping in the 1800s, completely takes over areas where it grows. Its strong root and stem system can break through pavement and damage foundations. Knotweed spreads easily through seeds and stalks, making it tough to remove entirely. Pulling it out leaves behind rhizomes, or root fragments, that allow it to regrow. Even many herbicides can't reach these rhizomes effectively.

The Impact of Invasive Species New Hampshire has over two dozen invasive species, such as Garlic Mustard, Oriental Bittersweet, and Multiflora Rose. Nationwide, dealing with invasive species costs an estimated $34.7 billion annually (2012 figure), which translates to over $100 per person in the U.S.

Native vs. Nonnative Plants Native plants, like Trillium, Lady Slipper, and Trout Lily, have existed in New Hampshire for a long time. They live in harmony with the local environment and other species. Nonnative plants, on the other hand, were brought here from elsewhere. Often, these plants, such as the potato from South America, integrate well with local ecosystems. However, some, like Japanese knotweed, become invasive and disruptive.

Need Help? If invasive plants are taking over your property or causing damage, contact me for expert help in controlling them. Let's work together to protect your land and restore its natural balance.

Feel free to reach out for assistance in managing invasive species effectively and sustainably.

Here are the resources along with the links:

New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food - Japanese Knotweed
- This document from the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture provides detailed information on the identification, impact, and management of Japanese knotweed in New Hampshire.
- Link: https://www.agriculture.nh.gov/publications-forms/documents/japanese-knotweed.pdf
University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension - Managing Japanese Knotweed
- This fact sheet from UNH Cooperative Extension offers practical advice on managing Japanese knotweed, including mechanical, chemical, and cultural control methods, tailored for New Hampshire.
- Link: https://extension.unh.edu/resource/japanese-knotweed-fact-sheet
New Hampshire Invasive Species Committee - Japanese Knotweed
- The NH Invasive Species Committee provides information on invasive plant regulations, including Japanese knotweed, and offers resources for control and management within the state.
- Link: https://www.agriculture.nh.gov/divisions/plant-industry/invasive-plants.htm
New Hampshire Lakes Association - Japanese Knotweed Management
- NH LAKES offers guidance on managing invasive species, including Japanese knotweed, with a focus on protecting New Hampshire’s lakes and waterways from infestation.
- Link: https://nhlakes.org/invasive-species/
New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services - Invasive Plant Species Program
- The NH DES Invasive Plant Species Program provides resources and guidelines for identifying and managing invasive plants, including Japanese knotweed, with an emphasis on protecting local ecosystems.
- Link: https://www.des.nh.gov/water/invasive-species/plants
Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) - Japanese Knotweed
- This comprehensive guide from the RHS offers detailed information on identifying, controlling, and managing Japanese knotweed, including methods for physical and chemical control.
- Link: https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?PID=218
Invasive Species Compendium - Japanese Knotweed
- CABI's Invasive Species Compendium provides an extensive datasheet on Japanese knotweed, covering its biology, distribution, impact, and management strategies.
- Link: https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/29744
USDA Forest Service - Japanese Knotweed
- The USDA Forest Service offers a detailed PDF document on Japanese knotweed, discussing its identification, ecology, and various control measures, including mechanical, chemical, and biological options.
- Link: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5410126.pdf
Natural Resources Wales - Japanese Knotweed
- This resource from Natural Resources Wales provides practical advice on identifying and managing Japanese knotweed, with guidelines for both residential and commercial properties.
- Link: https://naturalresources.wales/guidance-and-advice/environmental-topics/wildlife-and-biodiversity/japanese-knotweed/?lang=en
Environment Agency - Managing Japanese Knotweed
- The Environment Agency's guide outlines legal responsibilities and best practices for preventing the spread of Japanese knotweed, including detailed instructions for its disposal.
- Link: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/prevent-japanese-knotweed-from-spreading

These resources will provide comprehensive guidance on managing Japanese knotweed effectively, with a particular focus on New Hampshire-specific information and regulations.

Here's some links to more information about Japanese Knotweed. I've included sources from the UK because the presence of knotweed on private property is heavily regulated.

Invasives 101

Resources