Report #334 - Report: Ivy, English or Atlantic (Hedera helix or Hedera hibernica)

Ivy, English or Atlantic (Hedera helix or Hedera hibernica) on May 22, 2009

Submitter does not have a specimen

Description of specimen

ovewrgrowing a rock wall that never had it before.

Commentary

Cheryl, thank you for your report of English Ivy. English Ivy is a problem plant throughout much of western Oregon. Because ivy doesn't grow as fast as blackberry, a little maintenance now and then will be all that is required. As for disposal, you can bag it and trow it in the trash, or if you have a very dry site like an old gravel or concrete pad, you can let the vines dry thoroughly until you are absolutely sure they are dead and then dispose of them as you see fit. Ivy can be controlled if you maintain it. Thanks again for the report.

Lisa DeBruyckere
May 26, 2009, 12:41 p.m.

I have talked with one of the home owners and they want it gone.... the other one with the address that I gave you does not want it gone. It(he) is a problem.The home owner that I talked to will let me controll the ivey ,the address that I gave you will not let me touch it. The problem is that the homeowner has it trimmed but it is so thick that it allmost takes up one lane in the alley/street. I would like to see it cut back in to the wall at least 2 feet so cars can pass with ease.

Reporter
May 26, 2009, 1:59 p.m.

Hi Cheryl, unfortunately, there is no law against growing English Ivy, and you cannot force a landowner to maintain, control, or eradicate it. Staff in the Portland metropolitan area are reviewing legislation in the state of Washington that requires the landowner to eradicate some invasive species because they greatly outcompete natives. However, such legislation does not exist in Oregon. If the ivy is indeed consuming one lane of a street, you may be able to get assistance in controlling it through the local soil and water conservation district (see the hyperlink above), the county, or the city. I wish I could be more specific, however, I cannot tell from your description if the alley/street is a bonafide county road, city street, etc.

Lisa DeBruyckere
May 26, 2009, 2:24 p.m.

that is good to know. It is a bonafide street,but I will try to maintain it for him as long as he is willing to let me.You gave me great info. Thank you,Cheryl

Reporter
May 27, 2009, 2:41 p.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 May 22, 2009

Description of specimen

Commentary

Remedy

Resources

Location

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