Discussion
@DoomsdaysCW this sounds really promising.
Do we have a clear record of what spacing hardware mesh is being used? The article / press release seems to have this munged somehow as "-inch".
From the images, I would assume it's half inch spacing. We have several patches of knotweed infestation, though, and I'd like to see about applying this I'm addition to our existing management methods.
@DoomsdaysCW this sounds really promising.
Do we have a clear record of what spacing hardware mesh is being used? The article / press release seems to have this munged somehow as "-inch".
From the images, I would assume it's half inch spacing. We have several patches of knotweed infestation, though, and I'd like to see about applying this I'm addition to our existing management methods.
@hugo
"This new (new-to-me) method involves selecting a patch of knotweed and clearing out the surface growth from previous growing seasons. The cleared-out section is then covered with a wire fence mesh with ½ inch x ½ inch openings. The fencing material will have to be fastened down in some method so it will stay put throughout the growing season. And that’s all you do. Simple."
Source:
https://vtinvasives.org/news-events/news/a-new-way-to-treat-knotweed
Recommended material:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-1-2-in-Mesh-x-2-ft-x-5-ft-19-Gauge-Galvanized-Steel-Hardware-Cloth-308221EB/205960835
@DoomsdaysCW that's perfect; it confirms it's half inch hardware cloth:
The cleared-out section is then covered with a wire fence mesh with ½ inch x ½ inch openings.
And the previous / original Maine release indicates galvanized:
galvanized steel hardware fencing over the cut stems.
That should account for the "coated" look. It's possible they also had some other coating on there, but the wording in the different write-ups never seem to talk about a chemical component to the mesh solution, and at least seem to focus on the mechanical aspects of it.
The spots where we have knotweed infestations are more often on riparian type banks, which could make this technique tough to apply, but honestly I'm willing to give it a shot to see if I can apply it. Half inch galvanized steel hardware cloth is readily and fairly cheaply available. It definitely seems worth a shot, especially if the writeups are accurate about still allowing native flora to push through and help reestablish alternative cover and try to crowd out the knotweed.
