LifestyleGardeningGardeningThis fast-growing weed can quickly take over your garden and be incredibly difficult to remove.11:23, 21 Jul 2026Gardeners in the UK are familiar with the plague of Japanese knotweed. This invasive weed takes over gardens and can be incredibly difficult to remove as it chokes other plants.‌However, another fast-growing, invasive weed is creeping into outdoor spaces across the UK and quickly causing chaos. This aggressive weed has been dubbed the "mile-a-minute" plant as it can grow four metres in a single season.‌It suffocates native plants, blocks light and tears apart fences, sheds and brickwork.‌The Russian vine (Fallopia baldschuanica) emerges in spring and grows relentlessly over summer.It spreads via deep root systems and can be almost impossible to remove. Simply cutting it back won’t stop its growth and it will keep returning year after year.Unlike Japanese Knotweed, which is listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act, Russian vines are not illegal to sell or plant which makes the problem more pervasive.‌Many homeowners think it is a quick, easy solution to cover empty spots in their garden, and are unaware of the danger.Jennifer Holmes from Environment Controls , said: “Russian vine is often introduced to gardens as a quick, attractive solution for covering bare walls or fences.‌"But that rapid growth is a double-edged sword. Once established, its speed is terrifying."It can easily scale mature trees, smothering them to death by blocking out sunlight, or tear down garden fencing under its sheer weight.“Because it isn't subject to the same strict legal restrictions as Japanese knotweed, people assume it’s harmless. It isn't.”‌Jennifer is urging gardeners to be aware of the dangers of the vine and think twice before planting it.She said homeowners must “act immediately at the first sign of an unwanted invasion”.She continued: “Whilst it can be controlled with herbicide, unless it’s applied by experienced professionals it is highly likely to just keep coming back.”Article continues belowChoose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌GardeningGardenEnvironmentproperty news