Giant Hogweed was introduced in the 19th century as an ornamental plant and is one of the most invasive plant species found in the United Kingdom. It spreads very quickly and dominates native plants leaving the soil vulnerable to erosion. 

The species is a public health hazard. The plant gives off a clear watery toxic sap from the leaves and particularly the stem. The sap contains a glucoside called furanocoumarin. Exposure to sunlight following contact causes severe blistering and burns to the affected areas. Cases are often found where the plant has been strimmed.

The plant spreads through seed dispersal from its umbrella-shaped flower head. Giant Hogweed is common along riverbanks throughout the United Kingdom due to its seeds being distributed by waterways.

Why choose Maydencroft Rural?

• Proven experience
• Cost effective
• Full site survey
• Fully qualified operatives
• Method statement
• Risk assessment
• COSHH assessment
• Understanding of environmentally sensitive areas
• Recommendation on method of control
• Full programme of works

The legal issues

Under The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 it is an offence to introduce Giant hogweed into the wild.  This includes transferring soil contaminated with hogweed material (such as seeds) from one location to another.

Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and Duty of Care Regulations 1991, hogweed infested soil or plant material must be removed to a licensed landfill site for disposal accompanied by appropriate waste transfer documentation.

Methods of control

• Chemical treatment - The most commonly used method. It is clean, efficient and if the correct application is followed it can be completely eradicated from a site.
• Dig and Remove - Very fast and effective but costly as contaminated waste is removed off site.