If you’ve noticed knotweed nearby, then the clock is ticking. As you know, knotweed spreads fast. It can grow 4 inches a day and just a fragment of rhizome can grow into a new plant. If left unchecked, that same rhizome can grow over 3 feet laterally, creating new stalks, new rhizomes, and new problems. Knotweed will grow under rock walls and through hardscape materials like asphalt, concrete, and your floors. So, if you’ve seen knotweed in your neighborhood, then it’s time to act. But how do you constructively approach a neighbor about knotweed before it’s too late?
We’ve provide some tips below. Keep the following in mind as you read them.
Your neighbor may not know what knotweed is. Most property owners see something green in their yard and avoid cutting it down. And, as much as we absolutely, totally, and unwaveringly despise knotweed, it’s… well… sort of pretty sometimes. Boy, that was hard to write! The point is, you may have to do some educating first. Point them to this site as a start.
Consider your relationship with your neighbor(s). Lead with empathy before resorting to more aggressive tactics. Most neighbors want what’s best for their neighborhood and would rather have friendly neighbor than an angry one. You may have more in common than you think.
Okay, onto the tips.
Help, my neighbor has knotweed.
Tips for talking to neighbors with knotweed.
Schedule a specific time to talk. We favor in person meetings for this type of thing. Even if it’s a phone call, set a collaborative tone. When it comes to cooperation, a cordial conversation is a lot better than a confrontational one. Resist storming over to anyone’s house and banging on their door.
Let your neighbor know up front that you’d like to discuss a matter related to their property and the neighborhood. If they ask for details, let them know that knotweed was spotted on their property. If they ask ”What the heck is knotweed?” Send them to this website to raise awareness.
Come prepared. Create an outline and bring relevant supporting material. An outline might include: an intro to knotweed, its impacts on property property values, and its effect on the environment. If you have a suggested action plan, be ready to walk them through it.
When you meet, calmly explain the issue, how it affects you, how it affects them, and how it affects the neighborhood. Share any material you’ve gathered to support your position.
Highlight your common interests
“We live in a great neighborhood. I sense this is one of the biggest reasons we both moved here.”
Suggest solutions and invite input.
Point them in the right direction for further education. Share this website and others you’ve found useful.
Agree on next steps, and set dates. Unfortunately, time isn’t on anybody’s side. You’ll want to come up with an action plan as as soon as possible. Setting dates and next steps is a forcing mechanism. Don’t shy away from it. Knotweed lawsuits are so common in the UK that an industry has developed around disputes between property owners.