Blog & News

Have you managed Japanese knotweed?
Have you been effective in your efforts?

Japanese knotweed, Fallopia japonica, is among the most widespread and problematic invasive species found on PEI. The plant can be found in pockets or patches from tip to tip. The plant has profound negative social, ecological, and economic impacts. The plant is easily spread through the movement of soil and responds to some control measures with vigorous growth. This makes the implementation of best management practices crucial to successful control efforts.

Improper management techniques, like digging, can actually worsen the spread of this plant. Its roots can travel up to 4m deep and 18m horizontally, a mere .3g (weight of a pinch of salt) of root left behind can start a new plant. To meet the need for information, the PEIISC has created a set of visually engaging resources to help guide islanders in their efforts. Our hope is that by equipping islanders with these tools, we can promote more effective management practices that encourage the continued efforts to limit the impacts this species has across the island.

A huge thank you to the PEI Wildlife Conservation Fund for supporting the development of these tools financially, and another big thank you to everyone who contributes to the fund by purchasing conservation license plates and/or hunting/angling licenses.

Check out our new (2023) photo guide! It directs islanders through the process of identification and best management practices. Find it here:

This guide is complimented by a video demonstration describing these management techniques! Press play below: