Giant Hogweed

Where would you find it living?

It is generally found near riverbanks and in damp meadows, and it can also be found on waste ground and roadsides. 

Image
hogweed

What are the impacts?

It is highly invasive. Each plant can produce up to 50,000 seeds which can survive for up to 15 years. Contact with any part of this plant must be avoided as even minute amounts of sap can cause blistering of the skin following exposure to sunlight. 

Other negative impacts include outcompeting native flora, river bank erosion and increase in flood risk. Can cause delays and additional costs on development sites where the plant must be removed as controlled waste in order to comply with legislation.

How is giant hogweed treated?

Treatment of hogweed on council land is usually carried out in June and July when it is in full growth. Qualified staff use a spray containing Glyphosate, with a follow up treatment in September if needed. After 7 to 10 days the plants will wilt and die off.

Can you prevent the spread of giant hogweed?

In some cases, cutting or mowing the plants before they produce seeds can help reduce their spread. However, this method should only be conducted by professionals wearing appropriate protective gear, as sap can still be present and cause harm.

Image
giant hogweed green leaves

What should you do if you have giant hogweed growing on your property?

If you have giant hogweed on your property, it is recommended that you hire a professional exterminator to remove it. The plant will be removed safely and as few seeds as possible will be spread.

How do you dispose of giant hogweed?

Giant hogweed is a controlled waste so it can only be disposed of in licensed landfill sites with the required documentation.

What to do if the hogweed is growing on private property such as a golf course or residential area

If giant hogweed is located on land or property in Wirral the council will inform the land owner or tenant.

How to report sightings on council land

The council is only required to undertake treatment of invasive non-native species where it is present on council owned land. 

If you are concerned about any possible invasive non-native species on Wirral Council owned land, please report it with a photograph and specific location:

Report invasive non-native species found on council land