Ivy can easily cover a tree and kill it – either by pulling it down under its weight, or by smothering it. This is a Garry oak tree covered in ivy:
When ivy grows at a certain height above ground level, it also begins producing berries, which get spread even farther when birds eat them.
Lakewood has a major ivy problem that needs tackling – urgently. Other jurisdictions have regulations prohibiting property owners from allowing ivy to cover trees. Despite members of the public pointing out the problem and asking the City to do something for years, the City has done nothing – even during its long tree code amendment process. Lakewood as a tree canopy goal of 40% by the year 2040, yet it allows ivy to cover trees. Trees are being lost to ivy.
On American Lake, you can see a forest covered in ivy, with many trees already lying on the ground, the victims of ivy:
These oaks and other trees aren’t lost causes, and ivy is not a reason to cut trees down!
All you have to do is remove the ivy from the bottom four feet of the trunk, and the ivy above will die.
How to help:
- Urging the City of Lakewood to adopt policies that would have as their goal the eradication of ivy in Lakewood: through fines and public education.
- Joining us for ivy removal parties. Contact us by sending an email to action@oak.eco, or by text or voicemail at 530 359 8442.
- Letting us know if you know of Garry oaks or other trees that are covered in ivy. Report ivy emergencies to action@oak.eco, or by text or voicemail at 530 359 8442.
- Talking to people about the dangers of ivy and the need to remove it.