English ivy - known for thriving in low-light conditions - is often found in gardens and on homes in areas with less sunlight.
Its aerial roots, which can feel sticky, are extremely grippy and can latch onto anything, leading to structural damage. Clever gardeners have taken to Facebook to share the ultimate method for getting rid of ivy, and it costs just 30p.
Mary Cook sought advice on the Gardening Hints and Tips Facebook group, asking: "What's a good way to get rid of unwanted ivy?" Many group members suggested cutting down the ivy and applying bleach. However, using bleach in the garden can harm pets, animals, and other plants.
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Instead, Marianne Taylor advised: "The only way to eradicate ivy is to remove as much of it as possible by hand and then use white vinegar." She added: "It will be dead overnight and then you can work to remove it at the root with weedkiller or professional help." To use white vinegar, simply mix 80 per cent water with 20 per cent white vinegar and thoroughly spray the plant.
Older plants may require higher concentrations of vinegar to kill them, but ensure to only spray the affected area. White vinegar is potent and can cause other desired plants to wilt and die if they come into contact with it.
Gena Lorraine, a gardener at Fantastic Services, warned: "Ensure that you don't harm other plants while spraying the ivy plants." She advised to observe the results, remove any dead ivy, and reapply the solution as needed. Boiling water can also be used to kill ivy, but the plant will still retain its skin-irritating oils, so it's best to remove them with tongs and gloves if opting for this method.
