Invasive plants, poisonous plants, plant diseases: disposing of plant waste safely

The waste advisory service at the Bocholt Waste Management and Services Company is currently receiving an increasing number of enquiries regarding the disposal of plant waste, which is causing concern amongst residents. In addition to green plants infested with the box tree moth - which have been a problem for some time - this also concerns the disposal of poisonous plants such as ragwort and invasive species such as Japanese knotweed.

Callers often ask whether all parts of infested plants or invasive species should be put in the general waste bin or even burnt. The waste advice service explains how to handle problematic plant waste correctly.   

As a general rule, plant material is suitable for composting. However, a process known as 'hygienisation' must be ensured, so that any seeds and plant diseases present are killed off and plant toxins are broken down. These can only be sufficiently eliminated through hot composting combined with the appropriate level of moisture. For example, when composting in green waste or organic waste treatment plants, high temperatures are maintained over a period of several weeks. Home composting in your own garden is not an option, as the high temperatures required - over 55 °C - are rarely achieved for a prolonged period.

The organic waste bin is the best option for plant cuttings. Sanitisation is ensured through subsequent composting. In the case of plant cuttings infested with insects, it is advisable to store the cuttings in sealed bags until the bin is emptied. This prevents the insects from escaping. However, the bags must not be thrown into the organic waste bin. It is also possible to dispose of small quantities of plant waste of concern in the general waste bin.

Larger quantities of garden waste, including plant parts of concern, can be taken to the recycling centre. Plant waste infested with harmful insects must be placed in well-sealed bags and put in the general waste bin there.  

If you have any further questions about the disposal of problematic plants, please contact the ESB's waste advice service by telephone on 953 3434.