A RESEARCH has shown that there is a total of 602 verified knotweed sightings in Somerset.

The latest Environet data shows a 0.14 incidences in every 1km² and areas affected also include Portishead, Clevedon, Nailsea, and Weston-super-Mare, which are in the top ten for Somerset.

Environet estimates that approximately 5 per cent of homes are currently affected by Japanese knotweed, either directly or neighbouring an affected property, typically impacting property prices by around 5 per cent - or up to 10 per cent in severe cases.

Over the next few weeks knotweed will start to die back, as temperatures cool and light levels drop, sending the plant into its dormant winter phase.

Its green leaves will die and fall from the branches, the stems will turn brown and brittle, and after the first few frosts the plant will have completely died back, leaving only the dead canes remaining.

Emily Grant, director of Environet, said, “With over 60,000 known infestations of Japanese knotweed on our heatmap, we have a clear picture of its prevalence across the England and Wales.

“Knotweed is easily identifiable during summer, but it’s a perennial plant so as we head through the autumn and into winter, the above-ground growth dies back and it becomes much harder to spot.

“The best way to protect your property is to be aware of the risks and ensure you can identify knotweed at different times of the year.

“If you do have knotweed on your property, it’s wise to act immediately to treat or remove it before it has the chance to spread further.

“With professional assistance knotweed can be dealt with and the value of a property largely restored.

“If you’re buying or selling a property, consider instructing a Japanese knotweed survey to check for any sign of the plant on the property and its surroundings.”