Six ‘invasive’ garden plants that ‘reduce’ house value and ‘intimidate buyers’

A well-landscaped garden is a stunning site for many and a definite plus for those who are selling their property.

But the presence of some plants in the garden could be having the opposite effect, reducing the value of a home or even putting off buyers altogether.

To avoid this happening, Fantastic Gardener’s gardening expert Zach Morgan has shared six plants he believes should be avoided in gardens.

He said: “When selecting garden plants that can affect the value of your property, it’s important to consider their visual appeal, maintenance requirements, and how they fit within the overall design of your home. 

“While beauty is subjective and preferences can vary, there are certain plants that may have a negative impact on property value because of their invasiveness, high maintenance needs, or potential to cause damage. Here are six such plants that are generally considered to have the potential to devalue a property.”

READ MORE: ‘Essential’ task ‘gardeners’ need to do ‘regularly’ for ‘healthy plant growth’

1. Running varieties of bamboo 

Running bamboo species are known for their “aggressive growth” and “spreading tendencies”. If they aren’t contained properly, Zach warned that they can “quickly take over a garden” and even “intrude on the neighbouring properties”. 

The expert said: “This invasive nature can put off potential buyers and lead to costly removal procedures.”

2. Japanese knotweed 

This “highly invasive plant” can cause significant damage to buildings, foundations, and underground piping systems. 

Its rapid growth and ability to thrive in a wide range of conditions also make it difficult to control. The presence of Japanese knotweed can “raise concerns among prospective buyers” and decrease property value.

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3. Giant hogweed 

This garden plant isn’t only invasive but also poses a health risk. Its sap can cause severe burns and skin irritation when it’s exposed to sunlight. Zack said: “Because of these tendencies, having giant hogweed on the property can intimidate buyers and reduce its value.”

4. Poison ivy 

Although it may not directly affect property value, the presence of poison ivy in a garden can create health concerns for individuals with sensitivities or allergies. It can also be challenging to eradicate it because of its persistent growth and ability to spread through its roots and seeds. 

Besides that, because it’s an invasive specimen, it can compete with other desirable plants in the garden for water and nutrients. 

Last but not least, depending on the type and condition of the material of a house, poison ivy roots can sometimes take hold in cracks and crevices and cause damage. Even though this isn’t always the case and if a property has well-constructed walls, it shouldn’t be a problem, this plant typically “isn’t seen as favourable on the property market”.

5. Tree-of-heaven 

Despite its name, the tree-of-heaven is considered an invasive species, because it has a strong tendency to sprout rapidly from its roots and produces an abundance of seeds, leading to dense thickets that can compete with other plants and negatively impact the garden landscape.

6. Goutweed 

Goutweed is a vigorous ground cover that spreads rapidly through underground roots, making it difficult to control. 

The expert warned: “Its aggressive growth tendencies can crowd out other desirable plants and reduce the overall appeal of a garden. Its presence can also be seen as a maintenance burden by potential buyers.”

It’s important to note that even though these plants can impact property value, this can vary depending on the location and preferences of the buyer. However, in general, “avoiding or properly managing” these plants can help “maintain or enhance” the value of a property.

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