Ivy has the ability to climb up trees and grow over them. This looks nice but is it good for the trees or does the ivy need to be removed?
Originally, ivy grew in forests and found a way up from the forest floor. Of course, this led over the tree trunks. But ivy also thrives in the home garden without losing sight of the old direction of growth. As a gardener you are right to ask yourself whether you should leave the tendrils on the trees or rather remove them.
Does the vegetation damage?
The question often arises whether ivy that finds its way along trees is harmful or not. The trees could choke on the tendril or the shoots could break off. However, the roots of the plant could also damage the tree.
Some of these fears are unfounded. A he althy, strong and mature tree will not be damaged by ivy. The situation is different with young trees. These often have a very thin bark that could be damaged by the clinging roots. The branches can also bend down and break off. However, this only applies to very young trees. Weeping willows, whose branches protrude downwards anyway and are very thin, are also problematic. The ivy can become too heavy and damage the branches.
How does the ivy stick to the tree?
Unlike mistletoe, for example, ivy only touches the bark on the outside and does not penetrate the bark with its adhesive roots. The climbing plant therefore does not damage the tree, nor does it absorb any nutrients from the trunk.
Despite heavy vegetation, the tree gets enough sunlight. Ivy prefers to stay in the shade, so trees with dense foliage are ideal climbing aids for the plant. Since the ivy rarely covers the entire treetop, the tree also receives sufficient sunlight here.
Conclusion: Ivy does not have to be removed
You don't need to remove the ivy to protect the tree. Make exceptions:
- Young trees with low stature
- weakened trees with damaged bark
- Fruit Trees
Damage to the bark doesn't allow the roots to penetrate the tree, but it does form under the ivyideal climate for fungi that can damage the tree. Fruit trees are also only suitable for greening to a limited extent, because insects often settle in the ivy, which can have a negative effect on the fruit harvest. You can find out how to remove the ivy here.