Ivy can be a beautiful addition to any garden, but its vigorous growth can quickly get out of control on walls and fences. English ivy not only harms fences and walls but can also infiltrate cracks or joints, frequently leading to structural problems. When properly maintained, it can establish a sanctuary for wildlife and offer screening from neighbours, though many homeowners choose to eliminate it completely. On buildings, it can extend into gutters, windows and roofs, rendering routine upkeep difficult, as previously reported by the Express.
Why remove ivy from walls and fences?
Ivy is an appealing and highly beneficial plant for introducing year-round colour and visual appeal, particularly in shadier spots. Nevertheless, its robust growth habit means it can rapidly become unmanageable. According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), there are methods to eradicate it permanently.
They stated: "If ivy isn't causing any damage, it is often best to leave it in place. However, if you have ivy growing where it isn't wanted, or it is necessary to remove it, there are some options."
Cut back stems regularly
Use secateurs or loppers to prune ivy growth away from gutters, windows, chimneys and roofs. Depending on the scale, this may require doing several times annually, though once a year is typically sufficient. If the plant is established, exercise caution when cutting back as it can disturb masonry.
Partially remove the plant
According to the specialists, this is advisable where ivy blankets a substantial area and total removal proves too challenging. They said: "Start with the outermost stems, which will be most strongly attached to the wall or fence, and use secateurs or loppers to cut and peel stems away. Work slowly and carefully to minimise dislodging loose masonry."
Remove all ivy stems
The experts said: "Where you wish to remove ivy entirely, begin by cutting and carefully peeling off the outermost stems. Work steadily inwards towards the larger, central stems. These will be less strongly stuck to the wall or fence, but will be thicker, woodier and less manoeuvrable, so you may need a saw to remove them in pieces."
Follow these steps to stop the ivy regrowing
After removing all ivy stems, employ a sharp spade to extract the stump and as many large roots as possible. This will "stop the ivy regrowing". The experts added: "If you can't remove the stump, regularly cut any new growth back to ground level. This will weaken the plant, although it may take a long time to kill it."
Numerous other garden plants can also inflict damage, including Japanese knotweed. This requires professional intervention, however, as it can trigger a host of problems.
