Invasive and ubiquitous, English ivy can hurt trees and plants. Removing it isn’t easy

English ivy, a heavy, woody vine with handsome, dark-green, waxy leaves, is believed to have been brought to the New World by European colonists in the 1700s. Simply yanking the ivy would also remove the bark, which serves as the tree’s vital protection from insects, diseases and the elements. Because its trunk and vines cling sturdily to surfaces via three different methods -- aerial roots, tendrils and a sticky substance called glycosides – removing English ivy should be done carefully to avoid damaging trees. Next, working your way around the tree’s base, dig up all the ivy’s roots and remove the plant from the soil.