Giant Hogweed
Giant Hogweed was introduced to the UK in the early 19th Century. The leaves and flowers are very similar to that of cow parsley and the identification of Giant Hogweed is often confused for it. The main difference is the height and the fact that it can cause serious burns to the skin.
In summer, Giant Hogweed can reach a height of 5 metres. It too is a perennial, meaning that in winter the leaves and flowers die and fall off the plant however, a brown stem remains standing. Small rosettes with jagged, bright green leaves begin to appear in April. The Giant Hogweed stem will quickly begin to grow, allowing it to reach such a great height. The leaves in summer can reach up to 3 metres in length and up to 1.2 metres in width.
It was a pleasure to have your team on site, tackling the Japanese Knotweed removal for us. You were approachable, efficient and professional and we look forward to working with you again very soon.”
Dominic Gallagher, Project Manager, Eric wright Group
Giant Hogweed can be effectively treated through the application of herbicides. Due to the large volume of seeds produced by this plant, it is essential to continue treatment over a number of years as the seeds germinate and grow. To remove Giant Hogweed in a short timescale it is possible to excavate the main root of the plant and remove the seed reserve from the soil. This material can then be treated in situ or removed to landfill. Talk with us to find out more about treatment methods.