English ivy, while a visually appealing addition to any garden, can cause significant damage to outdoor spaces and properties if not properly managed.
Initially, the plant grows on the ground until it finds a suitable surface to climb, initiating an incredibly complex process.
Upon finding a surface to climb, the plant’s roots transform to adapt to the surface. The roots then aim to spread out, maximising their contact with the surface.
A sticky substance is released, and tiny hairs on the root become lodged in small crevices on the surface. It is only when these hairs dry out that they become crumpled up and securely locked into place.
Certified gardening expert and founder of GoTreeQuotes, Ben McInnerney, has revealed his top three methods for eliminating the plant. According to Ben, the most effective method is manual removal, which involves pulling the plant out of the ground, reports the Express.
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He explained: “This is one of the easiest and most effective methods for getting rid of English ivy.
“All you have to do is pull the ivy from the ground up and try to get as much of the root as possible.”
Ivy will be removed for good with gardening expert’s ‘easiest and most effective’ method
(Image: (Image: Getty))
When manually removing ivy, removing as much of the plant as possible is essential. This includes both stems and roots as it can regrow from any remaining stem and root fragments.
For the best results, gardeners should aim to do this every time new growth appears. The second suggestion from the gardening expert for dealing with English ivy is a simple trim.
Ben, an expert on plant management, suggests a “popular and easy way” to halt the rampant spread of ivy—using either standard or specialty gardening shears to cut the persistent ivy vines at the base. He reinforced the method, explaining: “Pruning back your English ivy regularly can prevent it from growing further.”
For more tenacious ivy issues, Ben underscores that using herbicides is an option, albeit a final one.
Offering further guidance, Ben advised: “If you aren’t able to control your ivy with pruning or cutting, you can try using natural herbicides.” But, he cautioned: “However, make sure to look for herbicides with glyphosate or triclopyr since these ingredients are incredibly effective against English ivy.”