Most gardeners know that ivy is a climbing plant that mainly grows in height or width via the climbing tendrils. Very few people know that ivy also spreads through the roots. The root depth plays a major role when you want to remove ivy from the garden.

The older the ivy, the deeper the roots

How deep does ivy root in the ground?

The root depth of ivy depends on the one hand on the age and on the other hand on the location of the plant. Young plants form a root system that is only a few centimeters deep - provided the soil is sufficiently moist.

The longer ivy grows at the site, the deeper the roots reach. Depending on the age, the root depth is then 30 to 40 centimeters. If the soil is rather dry, the roots dig deeper into the earth. You can then still find them at a depth of 60 centimeters and more.

Root depth of ivy on walls and walls

Ivy climbs walls and walls with its adhesive roots. If the wall is absolutely sound and has a non-porous surface, there is no risk of the ivy forming roots that penetrate the wall.

However, if the tendrils find spots where the facade is damaged, the ivy develops roots that penetrate the masonry. Depending on their nature, they can become several centimeters deep and thus blow up entire walls.

In such a case, the wall can no longer be saved. Before you pull ivy on masonry, you should therefore ensure that all damage is removed beforehand. In addition, you must cut back ivy in good time before it reaches window openings or roofs.

How deep do you have to dig to remove ivy?

If you want to permanently remove ivy from the garden, you only have to get the roots out of the ground as completely as possible.

Depending on the age, you may need to dig up to 2 feet or to the depth of the foundation to get all the ivy roots.

tips

Chemicals or gas burners do not help to remove ivy permanently. Because of the depth of the roots, anti-ivy remedies do not reach the roots. Even burning does not destroy the roots.

Category:

Indoor plants