More than 50 Japanese Knotweed cases have been reported in High Wycombe so far this year - the most in the entire county. 

Invasive plant specialist Environet has revealed that High Wycombe has seen the most Japanese Knotweed cases in 2024, with 51 incidents so far. 

This is more than double that of Chesham and Milton Keynes with both areas recording 19 cases this year. 

They were followed by Gerrards Cross which recorded 17 cases, and Berkhamsted which has seen 14 incidents. 

The analysis is based on the latest data from Environet's online tracker 'Exposed: The Japanese Knotweed Heatmap' which is updated throughout the year. 

2024 Japanese knotweed hotspots in Buckinghamshire2024 Japanese knotweed hotspots in Buckinghamshire (Image: Environet)

It shows there have been 218 verified knotweed sightings in Buckinghamshire, or 0.12 incidents for every square kilometre. 

Japanese knotweed is an invading species which can grow up to four inches a day and forms dense thickets which can kill native plant species. 

Emily Grant, director of Environet, said: “With over 60,000 known infestations of Japanese Knotweed on our heatmap, we have a clear picture of its prevalence across England and Wales.

"Knotweed is easily identifiable during summer, but it’s a perennial plant so as we head through the autumn and into winter, the above-ground growth dies back and it becomes much harder to spot.

“The best way to protect your property is to be aware of the risks and ensure you can identify knotweed at different times of the year.

"If you do have knotweed on your property, it’s wise to act immediately to treat or remove it before it has the chance to spread further.

"With professional assistance, knotweed can be dealt with and the value of a property largely restored.

"If you’re buying or selling a property, consider instructing a Japanese knotweed survey to check for any sign of the plant on the property and its surroundings.”