Climate change extends growing season. Earlier weedkiller use is cheaper, despite being controversial.
Starting in March saves about £18,000. This avoids hiring a summer gardener. The gardener removes weeds by hand, but using weedkiller earlier adds 300 liters yearly.
The council still aims to use less toxin. They reduced the amount since 2019, using 1,374 liters then and 570 liters last year. This is far less than six years ago.
They use it only on streets now. Parks and open spaces use it less, but it treats invasive plants like Japanese Knotweed. Road safety also requires it sometimes.
Community groups maintain some spaces, banning the weedkiller there. However, the council may extend its use period, and they will vote later this month.
Weeds grew a lot in early 2024. This was partly due to delayed weedkiller use, as climate change made the growing season longer, now including March and even November.
They also noted three new housing estates, requiring more weedkiller treatments. Using it earlier helps control weed growth and it simplifies maintenance efforts.
Using glyphosate in March improves the area’s look. It also saves resources, and those savings go to recycling and green spaces.