Report #1233 - Report: Ivy, English or Atlantic (Hedera helix or Hedera hibernica)

Ivy, English or Atlantic (Hedera helix or Hedera hibernica) on Jun 21, 2013

Submitter has sample

Description of specimen

woody vines with dark green leaves. Some have white veins. Dark purple or blue berries in spring. We have cut it back over the years, but it's out of control now. Covering the fence and part of the playground. By the end of the summer it will spread out over the parking lot by 5 feet.

Commentary

We have also noticed rodents living/hiding in it. We live next door to the school and have contacted them about it and removing it. Not sure if they'll cut it back or totally remove it. If it is only cut back can someone come out and remove it? It was cut back to the ground a few years ago by a volunteer group and now it's like the photos I've attached. I'm also happy to help.

Reporter
June 21, 2013, 3:38 a.m.

Hi, Sung. Sorry to take so long getting back to you. There's really very little to offer for ivy control. The Bureau of Development Services (BDS; 503-823-CODE [2633]) can fine properties for failing to manage plants to the point they harbor vermin, but I don't get the sense that that's the solution you're looking for. I wonder if the school board or PTA of the school would be interested in partnering with SOLVE, maybe, to do a removal project? I don't know. Feel free to reach me directly (mitch.bixby@portlandoregon.gov) if you'd like to strategize a bit more.

Thanks very much for your question.

-Mitch

Mitch Bixby
July 30, 2013, 4:40 a.m.

Remedy

Thanks for your report! Unfortunately ivy is too widespread and resources are too thin for land managers to assist with control. Controlling this species is of high importance, and we encourage you to take the steps to control this plant on your property. Below is some information to help you with this. Don't despair, you can do it!

Tackling an infestation of ivy is no easy task, but well worth the investment. If you notice a small infestation, do not delay in removing it. The longer one waits to treat ivy, the effort it takes to remedy the situation increases exponentially. If you have a large infestation that seems overwhelming try breaking the project into smaller more manageable areas, and tackle new areas as time allows. If you set smaller goals you might be less likely to be discouraged.

Follow these simple steps for an ivy free landscape.
• Carefully cut vines climbing trees and pull these vines away from the base of the tree. • Pull vines and roots from ivy creeping along the ground. Don’t forget your gloves and scissors.
• Dispose of cut vines in yard waste, or dry out completely and compost • Re-visit the site regularly to control re-growth

For more detailed information on English ivy and its control see this handout from King County Noxious Weed Control

Ivy, English or Atlantic (Hedera helix or Hedera hibernica) on Jun 21, 2013

Description of specimen

Commentary

Remedy

Resources

Location

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