Beautiful English Ivy can be a killer.

English Ivy (Hedera helix) is beautiful especially when it trails creating a covering like in flower beds.  It has been one of the favorite ground covers of gardeners and is a erosion preventer because it is easy to grow, tolerates shade, and is evergreen (meaning doesn’t turn brown in the winter).  However, English Ivy is now classified as an invasive species and a tree killer, among other things.

Home owners have long been cautioned against planting ivy on stone home and walls. The tendrils that help the plant climb can damage the mortar between the bricks or stones. And while ivy climbing a tree trunk may also be picturesque, it adds weight that can destabilize the roots. Thick vines can cut off a tree off from sunlight an important source of nourishment for the tree.  But what most don’t know (and neither did I until I started writing this article) is the vine is poisonous, if eaten by dogs or humans.

If you already have English Ivy in your yard the best way to combat the invasive plant is by hand. Trim regularly and where the vine climbs a tree cut the vine at the root but do not pull the vine off the tree as it may damage the bark.  If you decide to remove the vine completely you’ll find herbicides have little effect.  The ropy vines will have to be pulled up, taking as much of the root as possible. If you still like the look of English  the spread can be controlled with regular mowing.

If you are looking to replace ivy a round covers try blue phlox, American wild ginger, and ferns. Ferns are particularly good in shaded areas. Clematis is a noninvasive alternative if you are looking for a ropy vine.

Click here for the Forestry Service handout on English Ivy.   https://www.na.fs.fed.us/fhp/invasive_plants/weeds/english-ivy.pdf