How to remove English ivy: ‘Easiest’ and most effective method without using harsh chemica [Video]

Gardening: How to remove ivy from brickwork and trees

English ivy can be a beautiful addition to any garden to give it a storybook-like atmosphere, but if left unchecked it can quickly become uncontrollable. 

While not an invasive species in the UK, ivy can become troublesome when planted in gardens as it competes with other plants for nutrients, water, and sunlight, which can result in plants becoming unhealthy or even dying. 

Hal Brindley, a conservation biologist and founder of Our Wild Yard has explained that there are many natural gardening methods to remove ivy once it becomes a nuisance, and there is no need to turn to herbicides. 

He said: “It may be tempting to dump a systemic herbicide on the green menace in your yard, but keep in mind that weed killers like roundup can cause extensive damage to other plant species with spray drift.” 

Certain homemade herbicides such as white vinegar are often suggested online to remove ivy, but this is best avoided as it can …