Introduction

English Ivy, scientifically known as Hedera helix, is a vigorous, evergreen, climbing vine that is native to Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa. It is a widely appreciated ornamental plant due to its rapid growth, ability to cover unsightly objects, and low maintenance requirements. However, when not controlled, English Ivy can be detrimental to its environment. In the case of trees, English Ivy can be nothing short of a silent killer. Let's explore how this seemingly harmless plant can wreak havoc on trees.

1. Suffocation:

The first and most obvious threat that English Ivy poses is its ability to cover a tree entirely, acting almost like a straight jacket. As the ivy grows, it forms a thick mat of foliage, blocking light from reaching the tree's leaves or needles. Photosynthesis, the process through which plants convert sunlight into energy, is thus severely hindered, reducing the tree's overall vigour and potentially leading to its death.

2. Structural Weakness:

English Ivy, with its heavy mass of leaves and stems, can add a significant amount of weight to trees. This additional burden is particularly problematic in adverse weather conditions such as high winds, snow, or ice, which can make the tree more prone to falling or losing large branches. Consequently, a tree burdened with ivy may pose a safety hazard.

3. Competition for Resources:

English Ivy is a tenacious plant that competes with the tree for essential resources such as water and nutrients. Although the ivy doesn't directly take nutrients away from the tree, it may outcompete the tree's roots in the surrounding soil. Over time, the competition for these resources can weaken the tree and make it more susceptible to disease and insect infestations.

4. Hideout for Pests:

The dense foliage of English Ivy provides a perfect habitat for many pests, including rodents and a variety of insects. Some of these pests may harm the tree directly, while others may spread tree diseases. Additionally, the ivy's coverage can make it difficult for tree owners or arborists to identify and address these pest problems early.

5. Bark Damage:

English Ivy clings to tree bark using small, root-like structures. While these do not typically penetrate the tree's bark (contrary to some misconceptions), the sheer mass of ivy can damage the bark or exacerbate existing wounds. This damage may further stress the tree or provide an entry point for pathogens.

Mitigating the Effects of English Ivy

English Ivy's harmful effects on trees underscore the importance of managing this plant properly. Control measures may include regular pruning to prevent the ivy from climbing trees or manual removal of the ivy from the trunk and branches.

In conclusion, English Ivy, despite its aesthetic appeal, can be a lethal threat to trees. While the ivy is not inherently evil, its unchecked growth can lead to suffocation, structural weakness, increased competition for resources, pest infestations, and bark damage in trees. Thus, appropriate management of English Ivy is crucial in tree-rich environments to maintain the health and longevity of these important ecological entities.

Permanently Removing English Ivy

We remove all the above ground vines and ivy material with powered cutters, the cut material is cleaned up and hauled away. We then remove the ivy stumps and root material.

When necessary, we employ eco-friendly treatments to eradicate ivy. This involves cutting the plant down to the stump, then precisely treating the small new leaves that sprout. Following the treatment the root system will die. Our treatment will not kill other plants and has no soil activity or run off.

Ascent Yard Care has permanently removed hundreds of ivy infestations since our business was founded in 2017.

English Ivy removal cost

Contact us for a free in-person quote in Victoria, BC and Jake will provide an exact work order and pricing. We care intensely about the success of each project.

Won’t the ivy just grow back?

In the worst infestations up to 2 follow up visits may be necessary to completely eradicate re-growth. Most ivy infestations we service are completely and permanently removed in one visit.

Expert Help:

Contact us for a free quote. We care intensely about the successful eradication of ivy.