How to Cut Boston Ivy

Boston ivy is a vining plant that grows on vertical supports or buildings. It attaches itself to the structures with sticky pads. This variety of ivy is a popular decoration for older buildings or trees, and does not harm the trees it climbs. Generally, the Boston ivy vine requires no pruning to keep the plant healthy -- although, pruning controls its shape and size, and may stop insect infestations and disease.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Cut off dead or diseased stems with sharp pruning shears. Inspect the plant for insect infestation. Remove branches that show signs of infestation.

   • 2

     Cut back loose branches from the trellis or building. Boston ivy cannot reattach itself to supports.

   • 3

     Cut back branches that grow outside the space you have allotted for the Boston ivy plant. Cut these branches back to a main stem. Make pruning adjustments in the early spring, before new growth begins.