19/06/2019

TRADE ASSOCIATION PR

National trade body the Property Care Association (PCA) has developed specialist training to support property professionals in the identification of Japanese knotweed and other invasive species.

The ‘Invasive Plant Identification Course’ gives a comprehensive overview of the key issues surrounding certain plants listed on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act.

Growth stages, biosecurity, ecology, habitat and UK distribution are some of the areas covered by the one-day programme.

Participants are also able to see live non-native invasive specimens, which are being cultivated under stringent conditions in a specially created greenhouse environment on the PCA’s site.

Included in the list of non-native species covered by the programme are plants including, but not limited to;

• American Skunk Cabbage
• Rhododendron
• Giant Rhubarb
• Creepers
• Buddleia
• Hottentot Fig
• Yellow Azalea
• Giant Hogweed
• Few Flowered Leek
• Three Cornered Garlic
• Bamboo

The first course takes place at the PCA’s training centre, in Huntingdon, on Thursday, August 1.

The cost is £295 plus VAT for PCA members, and £345 plus VAT for those not in membership of the association.

More information and booking details can be found at www.property-care.org/training-qualifications/training-courses/invasive-plant-identification/

All those taking part also receive a free copy of both ‘Practical Management of Invasive Non-Native Weeds in Britain and Ireland’ and the ‘Field Guide to Invasive Plants and Animals In Britain.’