Covering knotweed with tarps

Abstract

Plant control with tarps can be an effective method to limit the expansion of invasive species (e.g. knotweed). Numerous experiments have been carried out over these past years and new geotextile fabrics have appeared on the market. However, the effectiveness of this technique is largely due to the specific methods of use, which must take into account the development capacities of the knotweed, particularly underground. The paper gives the main conditions of use and recommendations especially on covering materials, ground preparation methods and installation monitoring. We also consider the interest of these techniques regarding its cost and efficacy.