Which Vines Are Dangerous to Trees?

Kudzu

• Kudzu, Pueraria Montana, is an aggressive, green vine with large, three-lobed leaves that can grow up to 60 feet in a single season. It has starchy, tuberous root and semi-woody, climbing stems. These vines can spread in all directions from mature root crowns and roots at nodes, quickly forming new plants. Burning vines can cause new seeds to germinate, according to Alabama Cooperative Extension Service scientist John W. Everest. A number of herbicides are recommended for use in particular circumstances. Consult with your local agricultural extension service for the best treatment for your area and needs.

English Ivy

• English ivy, Hedera helix, is a lovely climbing vine with three-lobed leaves and clusters of greenish-yellow flowers. It can, however, invade other areas and overgrow on trees, covering them to the highest branches and blocking out sunlight to the rest of the tree. Vines can also girdle even large trees, tightly cutting into the bark and into the phloem, or circulatory system, of the tree. This keeps moisture and nutrition from flowing to all parts of the tree and will eventually cause the tree to die. Pulling it out by the roots is a recommended method of control, as well as the use of herbicides like glysophate and triclopyr.

Grapevines

• Grapevines, Vitis vinifera, can damage trees by completely covering the tree canopy and blocking out sunlight to the tree, according to the Washtenaw County Conservation District. It recommends cutting grapevines four feet from the ground so that they swing free of the tree's trunk. Winter is the best time to cut them, as their exact location and extent is easier to see. Chemical methods are useful in the spring with a variety of herbicide products. Consult with your local agricultural extension.

Japanese Honeysuckle

• Japanese Honeysuckle, Lonicera japonica, is a semi-evergreen, wood vine that grows to 30 feet tall, with fragrant, tubular flowers in the spring and black berries in the fall. It grows aggressively and is prohibited in some areas of the country. It can grow over the tops of trees, covering them and preventing the trees from getting sufficient sunlight and nutrients, according to the Morton Aboretum. Hand pulling this vine will help to keep it in control if roots are completely removed. Fire and herbicides like glyphosate also work.