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Possible invasive weed.

mitchell.a4BNhSzg_wmitchell.a4BNhSzg_w Posts: 6
in Problem solving
I have discovered a strange red root type entity growing in one of my compost bins. It’s extensive. Can you identify it please. My concern is, should I mulch using this batch of compost. Would I be inviting problems. Regards Andrew. 
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  • LunarSeaLunarSea Posts: 1,923
    Are your compost bins close to a tree by any chance? I have a similar situation where my bins are right next to a birch tree. The tree is sending roots upwards into my compost.
    Clay soil - Cheshire/Derbyshire border. 

    I play with plants and soil and sometimes it's successful
  • mitchell.a4BNhSzg_wmitchell.a4BNhSzg_w Posts: 6
    Not really. I have 3 other bins closer to the trees and they are problem free. Thanks for the response By the way.
  • UffUff Posts: 3,199
    Welcome to the forum @mitchell.a4BNhSzg_w
    I see the top pic is enlarged, how thick is that piece of root please?
    SW SCOTLAND but born in Derbyshire
  • mitchell.a4BNhSzg_wmitchell.a4BNhSzg_w Posts: 6
    2 maybe 3 millimetres maximum.  Thanks.
  • UffUff Posts: 3,199
    Do you have any London Pride in your garden?

    SW SCOTLAND but born in Derbyshire
  • mitchell.a4BNhSzg_wmitchell.a4BNhSzg_w Posts: 6
    yes, yes I do. I dug a clump up last year. As I recall it went in the council green bin. Or so I thought. Now wondering if some has found it’s way into my bin. Will compare the roots over the weekend. Thanks for the tip. Very much appreciated. 
  • WoodgreenWoodgreen Posts: 1,273
    edited March 2022
    Do these 'roots' break easily? Is there white under the reddish outer skin?
  • UffUff Posts: 3,199
    I've had another thought after Woodgreen's question. Does it feel a bit elastic? The weed that I'm thinking of grows low to the ground, is invasive, has small leaves and has small flowers on short stems that bend over at the top. S'truth I might have the answer by morning! 
    SW SCOTLAND but born in Derbyshire
  • WoodgreenWoodgreen Posts: 1,273
    I asked because they resemble the rhizomorphs of one of the species of honey fungus. When fresh they are a reddish colour, are soft and break easily (unlike the tougher black 'bootlaces' ) and they can form extensive networks in compost, becoming more wiry in the process.


  • WoodgreenWoodgreen Posts: 1,273
    @Uff Intrigued to know which weed you described, did you remember? It rings a bell.....
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