The East Ayrshire hotpots of Japanese Knotweed have been revealed in new data.
Residents have been warned that now is the time to take action against the destructive plant, which is in its peak flowering season from late summer through August and early September.
Growing up to three metres tall with roots reaching down 20 metres, the plant is known for wreaking havoc on homeowners, destroying pipework, drains and even weakening building foundations.
And new information has revealed where the most common place in East Ayrshire would be to find it.
According to invasive plant specialist Environet UK, the Mauchline area is a real hotbed, with 25 occurrences within 4km of the town.
Data also found there were four occurrences within 4km of Catrine.
The 2024 records show Cumnock and Dalmellington both had one case, while Auchinleck, New Cumnock and the rest of the area had none.
Kilmarnock had 20 cases, Galston had two, Darvel had one and Stewarton had five.
Some parts of Glasgow have recorded 138 sightings of the plant within 4km. While in London, some parts have recorded 265 sightings of knotweed.
While it hibernates over Winter, from March and April it returns and can destroy pipework, drains and can even weaken building foundations.
According to experts Japanese Knotweed Specialists, now is the time to act.
A spokesperson said: "Japanese Knotweed is most visible and active during the flowering season. If not controlled, it can quickly take over gardens and cause long-term damage due to its aggressive nature and strong desire to reproduce."
They said there are three critical indicators of Japanese Knotweed to look out for in the summer months are:
White to cream-coloured flowers
The flowers grow in clusters, known as panicles, which can be 6 to 15 cm long and feathery in appearance.
Heart-shaped leaves
The leaves are broad and heart-shaped, with a pointed tip. They range from 7 to 14 cm long and often grow in an alternate pattern along the stem.
Hollow, bamboo-like stems
The plant's hollow stems, similar to bamboo's, can be green, red, or purple. It has a zigzag growth pattern and can reach 3 to 4 metres (10 to 13 feet). It can form dense thickets that are difficult to control and penetrate.
To find out more, visit https://www.japaneseknotweedspecialists.com/
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