Adding plants to a yard that has flourishing trees can turn it into the green paradise you’ve always wanted. However, it is important to carefully think about the plants you add. Some species can create an ideal ecosystem, while others will only cause harm.
Ivy plants are one of the most preferred options among homeowners. Unfortunately, they have a complicated reputation.
Are you currently asking yourself, “Will ivy kill a tree?” Read on to learn the potential dangers this plant poses and the measures Santa Rosa’s tree removal company can help you implement.
What Is the Ivy Plant?
Also referred to as English Ivy, ivy is a plant that homeowners have used for years as ideal ground cover for their yards. This is mostly because of its consistent appearance and ability to cover large areas.
Will Ivy Kill a Tree?
It might be popular, but will ivy kill a tree? The answer is yes and no.
If you keep your ivy from the tree trunks and under control, you will have nothing to worry about. However, if the plant manages to attach itself to a tree’s trunk, it will start to climb toward the tree’s crown, causing problems along the way.
Why Does Ivy Climb Trees?
As human beings, we tend to gravitate toward certain things. Plants are the same way when it comes to sunlight.
Your trees are probably one of the tallest structures in your yard and, as such, have access to as much sunlight as they want. By climbing up the trunk, ivy can get better exposure to sunlight than it does when it is on the ground.
How Does Ivy Harm the Tree?
You might be thinking that there’s no harm in letting the plant get more sunlight. For the most part, you would be right. Since the plant only grows on the trunk, it does not interrupt your tree’s photosynthesis. Also, because of the bark’s waterproof nature, ivy cannot extract the tree’s water and nutrients.
However, if it gets out of control, it can smother the trunk. What’s more, it can spread to the branches, potentially compromising their structural integrity.
The worst part is that ivy can create hiding places for pests and rodents while making it harder for you to spot the tree’s structural defects.
Removing Ivy from the Tree
Determining whether to remove the ivy depends on how severe the growth is. If you do decide to get rid of the plant, it is vital to avoid pulling it off the tree. Doing so will also remove chunks of bark in the process, leaving your tree vulnerable to pests and diseases.
Professional Tree Service in Your Area
Are you concerned about how ivy can impact your tree’s health? Are you asking yourself, “Will ivy kill a tree?” Consult Santa Rosa’s trusted tree experts. We can help you with everything, from professional tree care to sourcing a tree removal permit. Call our Empire Tree Experts team today at (707) 521-2151 for the assistance you need.