Getting rid of ivy

Val Roche
by Val Roche
Can someone please tell me how to get rid of that dark green shiny ivy that covers half the stately homes in England and possibly America as well . My neighbor has it growing and its come into my yard as well . Its so hard to kill . My hips have had it , so hard work isn't an option .
  8 answers
  • Douglas Hunt Douglas Hunt on Jul 04, 2013
    Ivy was one of the top answers in a recent Hometalk poll about problem plants, Val, so you've got plenty of company with your problem if that makes you feel any better. For suggestions, see this post: http://www.hometalk.com/diy/q-what-is-best-way-to-kill-ivy-previous-home-owners-planted-this-around-the-house-and-76898
    What is best way to kill Ivy?
  • Val Roche Val Roche on Jul 04, 2013
    Thanks Douglas . Its given me a few ideas
  • Lou Lou on Jul 05, 2013
    This is a long post. Please read it all. UPDATE: I just noticed you stated you are not physically able to take on this project. After consulting your neighbor provide him with the ivy extermination information or if he is also not physically able suggest he hire a landscape professional experienced with permanent ivy removal. If he is not cooperative then hire a yard man to regularly cut the ivy back to your propery line. DO NOT use the below recommended spray poison as it may also kill any or all grass and other plants it contacts. NOTE: Your neighbor is most likely legally obligated to prevent the vine from invading your property. Consult your cities Code Compliance Dept. for further information. IVY & VINE EXTERMINATION:Pull or cut the ivy from the structure. Next, cut ground out level vines.. Once all the actual greenary has been cleared away you should be able to easily identify the primary root system. If possible use a two method approach to the kill. First, dig up as much of the root system as possible. This is quite a task. Second, PAINT the cut ends of EVERY primar root along with all remaining small roots with a "root & vine killer". This product penetrates and kills the entire root system. Available at most hardware stores. Come in small bottles with a dropper applicator attached to the inside of the cap. At the first sign of new growth use "poison ivy & brush" killer spray. Several applications may be required but I is very effective. Extra note. If the ivory attached itself to brick, mortar or wood siding inspect for damage. Regular strength power washing generally does not remove the ivy's feet. Caution, you may be tempted to use a commerical 300 psi hot water power washer. This may cause damage. Strongly suggest you contact a professional for further information. Btw, I learned all of the above the hard way. Good luck.
  • Val Roche Val Roche on Jul 06, 2013
    Thanks Lou . .I will follow your advice . Last year I cut it right back and dipped the all loose ends in commerial agricultural poison . Any at ground level were placed in plastic bags after poisoning . Will get someone to do again for me , as its just starting up again .
  • Jeanette S Jeanette S on Jul 06, 2013
    The neighbors on both sides of me planted ivy and both are lousy yard keepers! It has invaded my space! I chop a line along the border, then pull it up. I also spray it with Roundup. If neighbors don't like spraying Roundup, then they can get off their lazy butts and get their ivy off my property. One neighbor was a "naturalist" who hated chemicals but loved butt sitting! Go figure! HA!
  • Val Roche Val Roche on Jul 06, 2013
    Sounds like mine
  • Val Roche Val Roche on Jul 10, 2013
    I ended up using an agricultural poison . However I feel that it may take another dose in the not too distant future . Not everything has immediate results . Thanks to those who , gave me advice . I have "saved it " .,,,,,Cheers Moi
  • Chloe Crabtree Chloe Crabtree on Feb 07, 2024

    This is just the thing! I find this works wonderfully. You have to cut down the ivy and then brush this on the top of where you cut it. Bonide