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How to Kill Ivy in a Yard
How to Kill Ivy in a Yard. Yard ivy --- more often referred to as ground ivy or creeping Charlie --- is a troublesome nuisance for many homeowners. As the vines grow and spread across the ground, each node can sprout new roots and establish them in the ground. This allows a single vine to potentially have dozens of separate root systems which in...
Yard ivy --- more often referred to as ground ivy or creeping Charlie --- is a troublesome nuisance for many homeowners. As the vines grow and spread across the ground, each node can sprout new roots and establish them in the ground. This allows a single vine to potentially have dozens of separate root systems which in turn may make it more difficult to kill. The proper materials and strategic timing is the key to successful removal.
Things You'll Need
Dethatching rake
2,4-D herbicide
Garden sprayer
Rake the ivy with a dethatching rake to pull out portions of the root system and break them apart. For small batches of ivy, you may be able to rake it and pull it out of the ground by hand, but this isn't practical in many situations.
Mix herbicide solution in a garden sprayer. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Service recommends the use of a 2,4-D herbicide for ground ivy. Follow the mixing directions closely and never exceed the recommended amount of herbicide.
Spray the herbicide solution directly on the ivy. Keep in mind that the herbicide may kill or damage any other plants it touches, so be especially careful when you spray along the edges of the ivy patch.
Repeat the application if the first spray does not kill it. The directions on the herbicide package should have recommendations on how often it's safe to apply it, so figure out the appropriate time frame for the second application from the package instructions.
Tips & Warnings
Apply the herbicide in fall for best results.
