English ivy (Hedera helix) is a non-native evergreen vine that was widely introduced as a groundcover but has become a significant invasive species across North America. This plant poses a serious threat to natural ecosystems by forming dense mats on the forest floor, which shades out and smothers native wildflowers and tree seedlings. The vine also climbs trees and structures, blocking sunlight from the host’s foliage and adding substantial weight. This added weight can lead to limb breakage or structural damage, particularly during storms. Effective control requires a systematic approach that combines manual effort with targeted treatments to eradicate the deep, persistent root system.
Physical Removal Techniques
Manual removal is a non-chemical approach for English ivy, particularly suited for smaller infestations or areas near desirable plants. The process focuses on severing the main runners and removing the root material to prevent regrowth. Begin by cutting the vines into manageable sections using pruning shears or a machete, which helps to untangle the dense mat of foliage.
After cutting, the necessary step is to carefully pull or dig out the roots and rhizomes from the soil. Using a trowel, a garden knife, or a digging fork helps to loosen the ground and lift the root system, which can be shallow but extensive. It is important to remove every piece of the root and stem, as small fragments of English ivy can re-root and start a new plant. Moist soil generally makes the root material easier to extract completely.
Working in small, defined sections helps ensure thorough removal, moving a few square feet at a time before proceeding to the next patch. This method minimizes soil disturbance and reduces the chances of leaving behind viable root pieces. While time-consuming, consistently removing the ground cover and its roots is a successful long-term strategy that avoids the use of herbicides.
Targeted Chemical Treatment
For large or well-established infestations, chemical treatment focuses on the plant’s ability to transport nutrients to its roots. Systemic herbicides containing active ingredients like glyphosate or triclopyr are the most effective for penetrating the waxy, leathery leaves of the ivy. A direct approach is the “cut and paint” method, which involves applying a concentrated herbicide solution directly to the freshly cut stem.
This technique bypasses the protective waxy cuticle of the leaves, allowing the chemical to be absorbed directly into the vascular system of the plant. Immediately after cutting the main vine near the ground, a solution of 20% to 50% concentrated herbicide is painted onto the exposed cut surface with a foam brush or cotton swab. This ensures the chemical is translocated down to the roots. Application is most effective when the ivy is actively growing, such as in late spring or early fall.
Foliar application, where the leaves are sprayed, is less effective on mature ivy but can be improved by spraying new, tender growth that appears after the ivy has been cut back. When using any chemical, always wear personal protective equipment and adhere to the product label’s instructions to minimize risk to surrounding vegetation and the environment.
Managing Ivy on Structures and Trees
When English ivy has climbed up vertical surfaces, removal is required to prevent damage to the underlying structure or tree bark. The first step is to “girdle” the vine by cutting all stems completely around the base of the tree or wall, creating a clean gap of at least a few inches. This severs the connection to the root system, stopping the flow of water and nutrients to the upper portions of the plant.
After the initial cut, the vines above the gap should be left in place to die naturally, which takes several weeks to months. The aerial rootlets that allow the ivy to cling to the surface are firmly embedded into the bark or mortar, and attempting to pull live vines off can rip away tree bark or dislodge masonry. Once the vines are completely dry and brittle, they can be gently peeled or brushed away without causing structural harm. A wide, ivy-free zone of several feet should be maintained around the base of trees to prevent new vines from climbing back up.
Long-Term Monitoring and Prevention
Initial removal must be followed by consistent monitoring to prevent re-establishment. Removed vines and root pieces must not be placed in a compost pile, as the material can easily re-root and spread the infestation. Instead, disposed ivy should be bagged and left in the sun to dry out completely or taken to a facility that can handle invasive plant material.
Regularly check the cleared area for small sprouts emerging from missed root fragments, pulling them out while they are still small. To discourage future growth, consider planting native, non-invasive groundcovers that will compete with the ivy for light and soil resources. Applying a thick layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips, at least three inches deep, will also help suppress the growth of new ivy seedlings.