Ragwort
Japanese Knotweed
Ragwort
Ragwort is a native species to the British Isles, and is a weed specified under the Weeds Act 1959. Ragwort contains alkaloid toxins that, if eaten by horses or any grazing animal, can have debilitating or fatal consequences. The highest concentration of toxin is found in the pollen, then in order, the leaves, stems and roots. The effect of the toxin is cumulative and irrevocable, and as it builds up in the body results in liver failure. The build up is undetectable until it finally reaches the critical level at which symptoms occur.
Ragwort – The Law
All land-owners have a responsibility to control the spread of ragwort.
Ragwort weed – if you spot it anywhere in the village, contact the Parish Council who will arrange for its removal.
Japanese Knotweed
There have also been instances of Japanese knotweed being found in the village. It is commonly found today along railway lines, riverbanks, roads and footpaths, in graveyards, on derelict sites or anywhere that it has been dumped, dropped or deposited. What does it look like?
Japanese Knotweed forms dense clumps up to three metres in height. It has large, oval green leaves and a stem that is hollow and similar to bamboo. Usually in early spring (although it can be later in the year) the plant produces fleshy red tinged shoots. These can reach a height of 1.5 metres by May and three metres by June.
This plant can grow as much as 2 cms per day and will grow in any type of soil, no matter how poor. Towards the end of August clusters of cream flowers develop and then produce seeds that are sterile. The plant dies back between September and November. The speed with which it has spread to all parts of the UK has been spectacular when you consider that it does not leave seeds behind but grows from pieces of the plant or root system that are cut and transported by people or by water.
Japanese Knotweed – The Law
Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 / Wildlife (Northern Ireland) Order 1985 it is an offence ‘to plant or otherwise encourage’ the growth of Japanese Knotweed. This could include cutting the plant or roots and disturbing surrounding soil if not correctly managed.
Again, if you spot this plant in the village, please advise the Parish Council who will arrange for its controlled removal.
How to Contact the Parish Council
Please either contact the Parish Executive Officer. Thank You.
Executive Officer: Roger Westbury 0121 447 7455 Email: clerk@barntgreen.org.uk