11 june 2020
For years, Dutch municipalities have to deal with the Japanese Knotweed and the damage caused by this weed. The control of this rampant problematic plant is extremely difficult. Substrates with the RAG quality mark are guaranteed to be free of Japanese Knotweed and other of these so-called ‘invasive exotics’. RAG certified substrates can safely be used in the tree nursery, public green and roof gardens.
The RAG quality marks maintains strict requirements concerning tree substrates, soil supply/garden soil, green roof substrate and raw materials. These products and the company processes of the certified companies that deliver them, are tested continually. The weeds test is an important element in this. The zero tolerance applies to the invasive exotics. Because both the product and the process are guarded in the entire chain, this gives the highest possible quality, security and safety for the professional growers, municipalities, park managers, builders of infrastructure and gardeners. They will recognize RAG substrates by the mentioning of the RAG quality mark on the packaging, delivery receipt or invoice.
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The weeds test. The zero tolerance applies to the invasive exotics.
The Japanese Knotweed has root stems that can grow up to 7 metres long. This rampant weed can cause a lot of damage to for example roads, buildings and dikes. The plant can grow through asphalt and even through tears in the foundation of houses. Because of this strong growing power, the weed can also easily suppress other plants.
