How to Kill Ivy: A Step-by-Step Guide to Eradicating Ivy on the Ground, Trees, and Walls

by Zuzana September 26, 2022

written by Zuzana September 26, 2022

How to Kill Ivy: A Comprehensive Guide

Identifying Different Types of Ivy

Ivy is a common name for various plants, some of which are harmless ornamentals while others are invasive weeds. Here are some common types of ivy:

Swedish ivy: A harmless houseplant commonly grown in hanging baskets.
English ivy: An attractive groundcover that can become invasive if left unchecked.
Boston ivy: Similar to English ivy, with holdfasts that allow it to climb buildings and trees.
Ground ivy: A lawn weed that releases a pleasing fragrance when mowed.
Poison ivy: A toxic plant that causes skin irritation.

When to Kill Ivy

Spring is the best time to kill ivy before its leaves develop a waxy coating that makes it more resistant to herbicides. Apply herbicides when the ivy has 3-5 leaves of new growth.

Before Getting Started

Before killing ivy, consider the type of ivy you are removing and take appropriate precautions. Wear protective clothing when removing poison ivy. If possible, opt for organic methods like pulling or digging out the roots for ground ivy.

Methods for Killing Ivy

Killing Ivy on the Ground

Select a broadleaf herbicide containing glyphosate.
Spray the ivy with the herbicide.
Cut down the vines to the ground after die-back occurs.
Dispose of the vines properly.

Killing Ivy Attached to a Tree

Cut all vines at the base of the tree.
Make cuts in the vines higher up the tree trunk, about 5 feet up.
Carefully peel the 5-foot section of vines off the trunk, working from the ground up.
Dig out the ivy roots around the base of the tree.

Killing Ivy Climbing a Wall

Spray the ivy with glyphosate.
Cut the vines at the base of the wall.
Slowly peel small sections of vine off the wall, cutting away any resistance.
Dig out the ivy roots along the base of the wall.
Remove holdfasts using a solution of bleach, dish soap, and water, followed by scraping and brushing.

Additional Tips

Repeat the herbicide application if necessary, as ivy can be persistent.
Be patient, as killing ivy may take some time and effort.
Monitor for any new growth and remove it promptly.
Never compost ivy vines or roots, as they may contain viable seeds or root fragments.
If you have questions or concerns about killing ivy, consult a professional arborist or landscape contractor.

Zuzana

Zuzana isn't your average homeowner. Sure, she spends weekends nurturing a vibrant garden, coaxing life from seeds and reveling in the calming rhythm of nature. But her passion extends beyond the flowerbeds. Zuzana thrives on transforming everyday spaces, unearthing design magic on a budget. Imagine her, armed with a stack of magazines (think recycled, of course!) and a twinkle in her eye, meticulously planning a living room refresh. Upcycled furniture finds new life with a coat of paint and strategically placed throw pillows. A cascading vine, meticulously nurtured from a cutting, adds a touch of organic charm. Zuzana's creativity isn't confined to expensive renovations; it flourishes in the realm of resourcefulness. Her love for all things green spills over into her design philosophy. Think repurposed mason jars transformed into hanging terrariums, or strategically placed houseplants that breathe life into a corner. Sustainability and resourcefulness are woven into the very fabric of her design aesthetic. Zuzana's journey isn't about achieving perfection from a catalog page; it's about expressing personal style with a dash of ingenuity. Whether it's breathing new life into a vintage find or crafting a unique centerpiece from foraged treasures, her creations are a testament to the power of imagination and a sprinkle of DIY magic.