Japanese Knotweed is considered an invasive species in Nova Scotia
Japanese Knotweed grows mainly in urban habitats but may also be found in natural watercourse areas. It thrives in full sunlight, preferring open exposure, but can also survive in deep shade. Look for Japanese Knotweed along roadsides, ditches, fence lines, and around old homesteads. This invasive species grows in thick clumps that block out sunlight, effectively shading out native species and reducing biodiversity.
What Can You Do?
- Promote the use of native plants for gardens and landscaping; avoid planting invasive species.
- When removing Knotweed from your property, do not burn the plant, or place it in a backyard compost pile or your green cart.
- Double bag it and leave it in the sun to rot, then discard.
- Remove the entire root system, or the plant will resprout from remaining roots.
- Dig up young Knotweed plants to prevent further spread.
- Cover the plant with dark material to block out the sun and cook the plant. This process, called tarping, is best done when started in late spring. This is not recommended for low light areas.
- If you spot this invasive species, report the location to the Nova Scotia Invasive Species Council or iNaturalist.ca.
For more information, visit the Nova Scotia Invasive Species Council website: https://nsinvasives.ca/