01 APR 2019

Types of Tree Ivy in Georgia

The greenery in Georgia is one strong reason so many families are making their move to this beautiful state. Current residents know that Georgia has a great variety of plants, trees, shrubs, bushes, and ivy. Though this diversity is lovely, it can also be overwhelming for property owners that want a healthy yard. Ivies in particular must be properly planted and maintained if you want to avoid an aggressive duel between your greenery for water and nutrients. At Sesmas Tree Service, our ISA-certified arborists have a solid understanding of common ivies in Georgia as well as their effects on the landscape. This article should help you get a slight understanding for yourself. If you have any particular questions or concerns, then feel free to call Sesmas Tree Service to consult with an expert for any type of tree care and tree removal services in Atlanta area.

Reasons to Be Wary of Ivy

Ivy might look attractive and nice but looks can be deceiving. In many cases, ivy can be harmful for the other plants on your property:

• Ivy competes with your other plants for water and nutrients.
• Ivy can invite pests that deteriorate the health of your trees, bushes, and shrubs.
• Aggressive ivy can cover your trees and block sunlight from getting to the branches and leaves.

This is not to say that all ivies are always bad. However, if you decide to grow ivy on your property, then be sure to properly maintain them. The ISA-certified arborists at Sesmas Tree Services can help you in this regard.

Types of Ivy

There are a large number of ivies in Georgia but here are some of the most common ones:

• English Ivy: This European native was brought to the Americas by colonial settlers and can grow up to 100 feet in length with flowers up to 6 inches tall. In Europe, these are fairly harmless, but they have no natural pests or diseases in Georgia. We recommend you avoid growing these for this reason. You might even need to work on preventing these from invading your yard as they are possibly the most common ivy in Georgia.
• Ground Ivy: Another European native, the ground ivy is also known as Creeping Charlie. Though they do not climb trees, ground ivy can grow over the ground and cause damage from the ground level. You can identify Creeping Charlie by its purple flowers that bloom in February and March.
• Poison Ivy: You have likely heard of poison ivy. Technically, poison ivy is not an ivy, but it can grow on trees and harm them by restricting sunlight and adding weight to tree branches. The rash-inducing oil on their leaves, stem, and roots remain affective even after the plant has died.

Contact the ISA-Certified Professionals

Call Sesmas Tree Service if you would like to consult an ISA-certified arborist about ivies on your property. The experts at Sesmas Tree Service can work with you to eliminate, prevent, or control these invasive species. Call now to schedule your flexible appointment or speak with a friendly representative.