Ivy is an aggressive grower that often overwhelms fences and structures with dense foliage and tenacious aerial roots. Its ability to cling tightly to surfaces like wood or chain-link can lead to structural damage if left unchecked. Successfully stopping this invasive plant requires a methodical approach that addresses both the visible vines and the extensive root system below the ground.
Safe Removal of Existing Ivy From the Fence Structure
The first step involves physically detaching the ivy from the fence without causing harm to the structure. Locate the main, woody vines near the base of the fence and sever them completely with loppers or pruning shears. Create a gap of several inches in the main vine to immediately cut off the flow of water and nutrients to the growth above.
Wear heavy-duty gloves and long sleeves, as contact with the plant can cause skin irritation. Work up the fence, cutting the remaining vines into manageable segments, ideally two to three feet in length. This segmentation prevents the plant’s weight from tearing off pieces of the fence when pulling.
Gently peel the sectioned vines away from the fence structure, starting at the initial cut near the ground. Patience is necessary, especially with wooden fences, as forceful pulling can cause damage. The sections of ivy still attached higher up will die and dry out over the next few weeks, which weakens their clinging rootlets and makes final removal easier.
Eradicating the Ivy Root System
Physical removal of the vines above ground is only a temporary fix, as the remaining root system will quickly attempt to regenerate new growth. To prevent regrowth, you must destroy the plant at its source. One effective method is the “cut and paint” technique using a systemic herbicide.
Immediately after cutting the main vine near the ground, apply a concentrated systemic herbicide, such as one containing 41% glyphosate, directly to the fresh cut surface of the remaining stump. The plant absorbs the chemical through the open wound, translocating the poison deep into the root structure. This targeted application ensures the herbicide reaches the roots efficiently while minimizing the risk of overspray damage to nearby plants.
If chemical treatment is not preferred, non-chemical alternatives can destroy the roots through heat and smothering. Pouring boiling water directly onto the cut root crown can effectively scald and kill the shallow portions of the root system. Alternatively, use solarization by covering the cleared area with thick black plastic sheeting or dark landscape fabric. This material blocks sunlight and traps solar heat, smothering the remaining root system over several weeks or months.
Strategies for Long-Term Regrowth Prevention
Once the ivy vines and roots have been removed and treated, the focus shifts to maintaining a clear zone to prevent re-establishment from residual roots or neighboring sources. This requires establishing a physical perimeter and routine monitoring.
Installing a Root Barrier
Consider installing a solid physical root barrier along the fence line, especially if the ivy is encroaching from an adjacent property. Root barriers made of thick plastic or metal sheeting should be sunk into the ground to a depth of at least 18 to 24 inches to deflect deep-growing runners. Ensure a couple of inches of the barrier protrudes above the soil line to prevent vines from growing over the top and re-rooting.
Routine Monitoring and Removal
Vigilance is a major factor in long-term control, as ivy is persistent. Conduct a routine inspection of the fence line at least once a month, especially during the active growing season. Clip and remove any new tendrils or shoots immediately before they can attach themselves to the fence or establish a strong root system.
Alternative Planting
To naturally discourage new ivy growth, replace the cleared area with alternative, non-climbing plantings. Selecting a dense, low-maintenance ground cover or small shrubs creates competition for soil resources and sunlight. Native options like perennial ground covers provide an aesthetic solution that will not pose the structural threat associated with aggressive vines.