Ivy

Question:

Can you tell me how to get rid of dead ivy that has stuck to brickwork and leaves a trail?

Answer:

First of all cut off the plant at the base to stop it re-shooting. If the ivy has grown into the cracks of the brinks you could end up pulling out parts of the wall as well. Clipping ivy off the surface is slow work, but it’s better than risking the possible damage. The process will leave little rootlets still attached to the wall, but over time (usually about a season) they’ll dry up and fall away. Immediately after taking off the ivy, wash the wall with a stiff-bristled brush and a solution of laundry detergent and water. This will remove the ivy’s adhesive pads, which held it to the wall. If you let these pads dry before you attempt to remove them, they’ll be almost impossible to get off.

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