How to Get Rid of Ivy
Posted on: 15 March 2024
Ivy is a common sight in many UK gardens, and it’s easy to understand why. This versatile, evergreen plant adds a touch of elegance to any property with its glossy, dark green leaves and intriguing climbing habit. However, left unchecked, ivy can quickly become a nuisance, causing damage to your property and potentially even harming the trees it climbs. As an experienced tree surgeon, I’ve encountered many clients who require ivy removal services. In this blog post, I’ll share my knowledge on how to get rid of ivy from your property in a friendly, authoritative manner.
Why Remove Ivy?
There are several reasons why you might want to remove ivy from your property:
- Damage to buildings: Ivy roots can penetrate walls, causing structural damage to your home or other buildings. This damage can be costly to repair, so removing ivy before it becomes a problem is best.
- Health of trees: Ivy can compete with trees for nutrients and sunlight, making it harder for them to grow and stay healthy. In severe cases, ivy can even strangle or smother a tree.
- Aesthetic reasons: While some people enjoy the look of ivy, others may find it unsightly, particularly when it grows out of control.
Steps to Remove Ivy From Your Property
- Assess the situation: Before removing ivy, take a moment to assess the extent of the infestation. Determine whether you’re dealing with a small patch or a large, mature plant. If you’re unsure how to proceed or if the ivy is growing at an unreachable height, it’s best to call in a professional tree surgeon.
- Prepare your tools: To remove ivy, you’ll need a pair of sturdy gloves, pruning shears, a garden fork or spade, and a ladder if necessary. Ensure your tools are clean and sharp to do the job efficiently.
- Cut the ivy at the base: Wear gloves to protect your hands, and use the pruning shears to cut through the ivy stems at the base of the plant. Leave a small section of the stem above ground, making it easier to pull the plant out later.
- Remove the ivy from the ground: Using a garden fork or spade, gently loosen the soil around the base of the ivy plant, taking care not to damage any nearby plants. Pull the ivy plant out of the ground, making sure to remove as many roots as possible to prevent regrowth.
- Detach the ivy from structures: Once you’ve removed the ivy from the ground, carefully pull it away from any structures, such as walls or trees, to which it’s attached. If the ivy is stubborn, use your pruning shears to cut it into smaller sections for easier removal.
- Dispose of the ivy: Place the removed ivy in garden waste bags or a compost bin. Do not leave cut ivy on the ground; it can quickly take root and grow again.
- Monitor the area: After removing the ivy, monitor the area for any signs of regrowth. If you notice new ivy shoots, remove them promptly to prevent another infestation.
How to Get Rid of Ivy Conclusion
Ivy may be an attractive addition to some gardens, but it can quickly become problematic when it grows out of control. By following these steps, you can remove ivy from your property and help prevent any damage it may cause. Remember, if you’re unsure about tackling ivy removal yourself or if the job is too big, don’t hesitate to contact a professional like the team here at Tree Wise Men.
We offer ivy removal services across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and surrounding areas! Get in touch today if you need assistance with anything tree or ivy related!