3 common garden plants to never grow that will devalue your home and put off buyers

Landscaped gardens can significantly increase home value; however, in the UK, certain plants can detract from your property's value, leading to costly maintenance issues or deterring potential buyers, according to specialists at Oakwood Property Solicitors.

The solicitors have shared three plants gardeners should be aware of, and they're more common than you'd think. For those who have any of these plants in their garden, it's important to take action before putting the home on the market. Even if you are not planning on moving any time soon, it makes sense to be aware of what these plants are.

1. Ivy

While ivy plants can add a touch of charm and history to your property, their potential to cause "structural damage, moisture issues, pest infestations, and legal disputes" makes it a risky choice for many homeowners.

Ivy's root systems can crawl into cracks in bricks, gaps in walls and weak spots in the structure, worsening any holes in your home.

The fast-growing weed can also be difficult to remove, with the ability to spread into out-of-reach areas. Ivy can also provide an ideal habitat for various pests, including insects and rodents.

These pests can make their way into your home, causing additional problems and making the property less appealing to prospective buyers.

The experts said: "A house completely overrun by ivy due to a lack of care can be unattractive to potential buyers due to high removal costs and maintenance."

2. Bamboo

Bamboo, particularly running varieties, can be "extremely invasive" with root systems that spread far and wide. Once established, bamboo can be very difficult to control and remove, and often needs professional intervention to control it.

The solicitors said: "Its aggressive nature can lead to property damage and disputes with neighbours, making it a potential devaluation factor."

3. Rhododendron ponticum

Rhododendron ponticum is an attractive flowering plant, but it is "highly invasive and toxic". It can spread rapidly, outcompeting plants and requiring extensive management efforts.

The specialists warned: "In the UK, it is illegal to plant Rhododendron Ponticum in the wild or allow it to spread from your property." Any prunings or waste material must be disposed of responsibly.