Over the years, I have been asked many times about English ivy. Most of the questions relate to how to control or even kill English ivy that has “gone wild.”

English ivy has a place in some landscapes; however, the problem with English ivy is it does not stay in its planted location. English ivy will cover trees, walls, walks and even homes. If you have let your ivy get out of hand and are considering getting rid of it, you'd better act fast. To eradicate ivy that has crept up trees or walls, simply cut the ivy stem at ground level. All of the ivy above the cut will die and will be easier to remove. While killing ivy growing on trees, try to avoid cutting into the tree trunk.

Finally, if you are determined to get rid of the ivy, get ready, as you are in for a battle. To remove the planting, you have two options: you can pull it up or use a herbicide.

One of the safest and most effective herbicides for this application is glyphosate. Glyphosate is found in Roundup and a few other herbicides. Glyphosate comes in many formulations. In early spring, when new growth is beginning to break, spray glyphosate on the ivy patch. Only apply to green foliage, and spray foliage until wet. Glyphosate doesn’t work on dead foliage, nor does it have any soil activity. Also be careful not get glyphosate on your boots and walk into an area where desirable plant foliage may come in contact with glyphosate. This is called tracking, and if you get glyphosate solution on any green plant material (i.e. your turfgrass), there is a good chance you will injure it.

It is also important not to spray trees or shrubs will glyphosate. Because of the extensive underground root system, re-application of glyphosate may be necessary for complete control of the ivy. Another tip to ivy control is to apply glyphosate directly to where a large vine has been cut.

Ivy can be a nice part of your landscape or it can be a real weed. For more information, contact the Dawson County Extension Office at (706) 265-2442.