A NEW heatmap has been released showing Isle of Wight locations with the most occurrences of the invasive plant species Japanese knotweed.

As the Japanese knotweed growing season gets underway, invasive plant specialist Environet UK reveals this year’s knotweed hotspots using data from its interactive tracker.

Knotweed hibernates over winter, but in Spring, it begins to grow with red or purple spear-like shoots emerging from the ground, quickly growing into lush green shrubs with pint flecked stems and bamboo-like cane.

For homeowners, the plant can pose serious problems if left unchecked, growing through cracks in concrete, tarmac driveways, pathways, drains and cavity walls.

The Isle of Wight Japanese knotweed hotspots for 2022 are:

Location and occurrences on the Island where infestations are within a 4km radius

  • Wroxall – 82
  • Shanklin – 65
  • St Helens – 53
  • Newport – 42
  • Cowes – 35

Nic Seal, founder and managing director of Environet, said: “By publishing the 2022 hotspots for the Isle of Wight, we hope to raise awareness and encourage people in the area to be vigilant for signs of knotweed as the growing season takes off, so they can act quickly if needed.”

Isle of Wight County Press: Japanese knotweed hotspots on the Isle of Wight. Picture courtesy of Environet UK.Japanese knotweed hotspots on the Isle of Wight. Picture courtesy of Environet UK.