For very old, thick vines, use a handsaw to carefully saw through the vine. [3] X Research source As you work, be careful not to make cuts on the tree itself. Ivy weakens trees and makes them more susceptible to disease. Cutting through the bark could cause further damage.
As you pull the cut vines from the tree, be careful not to remove too much bark with the holdfasts. The same method works for removing ivy from outdoor walls.
Start by cutting a line through the ivy along the ground, from the base of the tree to a distance 4–6 feet (1. 2–1. 8 m) away. Cut several more lines radiating from the tree. Cutting the ivy into sections will make it easier to remove. Make a cut that connects all the lines 4–6 feet (1. 2–1. 8 m) from the base of the tree. Start pulling up the mats of ivy section by section. Keep removing ivy until you’ve cleared the area around the base of the tree such that no ivy reaches within 4–6 feet (1. 2–1. 8 m) of it.
If you’re working on a hill, cut vertical lines from the top of the hill to the bottom to create sections that you can roll downhill.
Mulching the ivy rolls is the best way to dispose of them and ensure they won’t take root in the area again.
Please note: The WHO considers glyphosate to be a probable human carcinogen. Its use is prohibited in some states and countries. Please check with your local laws and use caution if handling this chemical. Spray the area of ivy you wish to kill, but be careful the glyphosate doesn’t reach other plants you want to keep. Herbicides are slow-acting, and must be reapplied every six weeks or so.
Another option is to trim the ivy back to contain it. Use a weed eater or edging tool to cut the vines along the border.
