Grass and weeds

Grass cutting

There are three areas of grass that we look after:

• roadside verges - we cut roadside verges at least once a year to prevent grass growing over into the road
• road junctions also known as visibility splays - we cut the grass in these areas at least three times a year
• urban areas - grassy areas that help soften the hard look of roads and pavements. We cut the grass in these areas at least eight times a year.

We do not cut any spring flowers, such as daffodils and bluebells until six weeks after their flowering period. This helps ensure their return the following year.

There are certain areas called roadside nature reserves. We manage these areas in accordance with the Kent Wildlife Trust guidelines to encourage wildlife and plants.

Weeds

We spray herbicide, which is a weedkiller, on pavements made of bricks and concrete slabs, and on the sides of tarmac pavements. We may also treat verges.

We spray herbicide at least once a year, generally between June and mid July. The herbicide we use is Glyphosate, the most commonly used herbicide on the market. It is considered to be generally safe for its users, the public and to have minimal impact on the environment when used correctly.

We decide if weather conditions are suitable for spraying. If it is raining, the herbicide won't work, and if it is too windy, the spray may damage areas not intended for treatment, such as gardens.

We check sites about 10 days after application to see if the weeds are dying, and the work has been successful.

Highways inspectors are trained to recognise harmful weeds that require specialist treatment, such as ragwort, giant hogweed, Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam.

We already know about many areas where they have been found and are making sure we keep them under control. We use specialist workmen who can deal with them very quickly and the best time of the year for doing this.

We're currently conducting research into methods of controlling weed growth on pavements in Thanet. To find out more, take a look at the Weed Control Project page.