English Ivy

Impact on Trees

English ivy climbs using aerial roots. Although it is not considered a parasitic plant, it can cause significant damage to trees and may contribute to tree decline or death.
Ivy traps moisture against the trunk, which can cause the outer bark to split and rot.
Ivy can form a dense layer of foliage that shades the tree, reducing its ability to produce food through photosynthesis.
Ivy can add substantial weight to a tree canopy, increasing the risk of branch failure, trunk breakage, or the entire tree falling.

Ivy can outcompete native vegetation, reducing biodiversity that supports native birds, mammals, and other wildlife.
Biodiversity plays an important role in water quality. Stream buffers rely on a variety of plant species to maintain stability along stream banks. Diverse root systems help filter rainwater and runoff while reducing erosion.

Ivy can be an attractive and useful groundcover when properly managed.
Property owners are responsible for the health and maintenance of trees on their property.
Trees may fail due to multiple stressors, including high winds, disease, drought, and uneven weight distribution.
Wildlife such as snakes and rodents may seek shelter in dense ivy growth.

To protect a tree that is becoming covered with ivy, cut the ivy at the base of the tree and create a clear collar approximately 36 inches wide around the trunk.
Do not attempt to pull ivy from the tree trunk, as doing so may damage the bark. When left in place, the ivy will die and naturally detach over time.
Maintain the open collar regularly to prevent ivy from returning.
A glyphosate-based herbicide may help control regrowth when used according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Carefully dispose of ivy debris to prevent resprouting.
Do not dispose of ivy in wooded areas, compost piles, or gardens, as it may continue to grow and spread.
Wear protective clothing and gloves, as poison ivy may grow alongside English ivy.