Want a lush garden that boosts your home’s appeal? Of course! But hold on – some innocent-looking plants could be secret saboteurs, sending your property value plummeting.

The Daily Record spoke to property expert Bradley Mackenzie of Chartered Surveyors Stokemont to get the lowdown on these garden villains and how to tackle them:

1. Himalayan Balsam: Pretty Killer

This plant might look charming with its pink summer blooms, but don’t be fooled! Himalayan balsam spreads like wildfire, scattering up to 800 seeds far and wide.

Why it’s bad news for your home:

• Garden Thug: It bullies other plants, hogging all the light, nutrients, and water, eventually killing them off.
• Buyer Beware: Potential buyers are turned off by this invasive species, knowing the headache it brings.
• Illegal Action: It’s actually against the law to let it spread to your neighbour’s garden!

What to do: Control it rigorously or get rid of it completely.

2. Japanese Knotweed: The House Eater

This plant sounds innocent enough, but Japanese knotweed is the stuff of homeowner nightmares. Growing up to 3 metres tall, its real danger lurks beneath the surface – roots that burrow down a staggering 20 metres!

Why it’s bad news for your home:

• Foundation Killer: Those powerful roots can crack foundations, wreck drains, and even damage pipework.
• Price Plunge: Properties blighted by Japanese knotweed can lose a whopping 5-20% of their value.
• Survey Strike: It’s even listed as a defect on official property surveys – a massive red flag for buyers.

What to do:

• Urgent Action: Call in the professionals immediately.
• Expert Extermination: This plant is notoriously hard to kill, even tiny bits can regrow, so professional help is essential.

3. Rhododendron Ponticum: The Outlaw

This type of rhododendron might seem less aggressive, but it’s actually illegal to plant in the wild in the UK.

Why it’s bad news for your home:

• Unwanted Guest: This plant can quickly take over, crowding out other species.
• Legal Trouble: Letting it escape from your garden into the wild is against the law.

What to do:

• Seek Expert Advice: Removing it can be tricky, depending on the size of the problem. Professionals can advise on the best course of action.

The Bottom Line:

A beautiful garden can definitely boost your home’s value, but make sure you’re not harbouring these horticultural horrors! Stay vigilant, take action fast, and don’t let these garden villains sabotage your property dreams!