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Knotweed a growing problem Do you know if there is an effort in Oregon to eradicate Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum)? I saw a large patch of it at Casey State Park and understand that it spreads rapidly along rivers. --Charles H., Eagle Point There doesn't appear to be a concerted effort like that waged against better-known invasive weeds, such as tansy ragwort and yellow star thistle, Charles. Agronomist Ken French, noxious-weed specialist for the state Department of Agriculture, said there really hasn't been a state effort against Japanese knotweed. He said while it hasn't been a major problem to agriculture, that doesn't mean it's good for Oregon. "We know it's present in riparian areas, roadside areas," he said. "But control is quite difficult in heavy stands." The deep-rooted plant, which returns each spring, has a heart-shaped leaf larger than that of a hybrid poplar, he said. "It'll grow up to 10 feet each year," he said, noting that chemical control has been the only effective tool. "You really can't dig it up." (Send your questions to "Since You Asked," Mail Tribune Newsroom, P.O. Box 1108, Medford, OR 97501; or by fax to (541) 776-4376; or by e-mail to: [email protected] Please include your name, address and phone number for verification.) Today's News Index Mail Tribune Copyright � The Mail Tribune 1999, Medford, Oregon USA