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Analysis Japanese knotweed

February 24, 2022

Japanese knotweed is a real pest. That is why, as of 1 January 2022, legislation is in place to curb this invasive plant. It is prohibited to trade, transport or possess this invasive exotic species, according to the Nature Conservation Act (Wnb). With the Japanese knotweed analysis by SGS, it is quickly clear whether this devastating plant is in your soil.

SGS has developed a DNA method to find traces of Japanese knotweed in soil or in soil samples (in case of earthmoving). This PCR test uses the same technique as the well-known COVID test. The analysis of Japanese knotweed therefore gives a positive or negative result. The test works with specially developed 'primers'. These amplify only the DNA of banned Japanese knotweed variants to a level that even the smallest amounts of plant material can be detected. 

Soil samples 
With soil movement or the purchase or sale of land, you quickly know where you stand with the Japanese knotweed analysis. Since Japanese knotweed does not grow in the winter and is therefore not visible, a representative soil sample is needed. The analysis of Japanese knotweed can for instance be added during lot inspections (AP04). Also, soil samples can be taken that originate from exploratory soil investigations (environmental health, asbestos in the soil). The plant can also be detected from pieces of plant material.

Serious damage
Japan is the natural habitat of Japanese knotweed, but currently the weed is spreading rapidly all over the world. The roots of the fast-growing plant are very strong and can cause serious damage to, for example, roads, sewage pipes and buildings. The harmful plant interferes with natural vegetation, which can cause damage to, for example, dykes and other water works. Legislation should prevent the spread of the invasive exotic species. 

The advantages of Japanese knotweed analysis: 

  • Works on plant or root samples and soil samples 
  • Detects Japanese knotweed very specifically 
  • Simple sampling by means of soil research (possibly in combination with PFAS research) as well as delivery of soil sample after lot inspection (AP04)
  • Ideal if visual identification is not possible (in winter or during earth-moving operations)

Would you like more information about the analysis of Japanese knotweed, or would you like to schedule an analysis? Please contact us at +31 (0)10 23 14 700.

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  • SGS Nederland B.V.

Malledijk 18,

, 3208 LA,

Spijkenisse, Netherlands