Non-native vines (vines introduced from somewhere else in the world) can grow aggressively, and steal nutrients and sunlight from trees. A non-native vine such as English ivy, porcelain berry, or oriental bittersweet can crowd tree branches, blocking the sunlight trees need for photosynthesis. These non-native vines rely on the same supply of water and nutrients as the tree. Vines can weigh the tree down, putting it at risk of breaking or falling in a storm. Over time, the stress on the tree can make it a target for unwanted pests. 

There are native vines, meaning they co-evolved with the flora and fauna found in the Mid-Atlantic region. These vines, such as poison ivy, wild grape and virginia creeper, are all valuable for wildlife because of the nectar, nutritious berries, and shelter they provide. They also climb trees in a way that does not damage the trees over time. 

If you have a tree with vines in your backyard, the first step is to identify what kind it is. Fortunately, if you have access to the internet, you can find good information from sources such as these provided by Joe’s Movement Emporium Greenworks. 

Once you determine it is an invasive vine to remove, follow these key steps.                                                                                                                  

1. Use garden clippers to cut the vines at the bottom of the trunk. Make sure to cut all of the vines that connect to the ground. If the tree is heavily infested with vines thicker than an inch, you will need a saw. Care should be taken with a heavily infested tree to avoid cutting into the bark, as this can hurt the tree.
2. Pull the vines out of the ground around the base of the tree to help protect the tree from future infestation.
3. After you clear all the vines that connect to the ground, leave the vines on the trees. Don’t pull the vines off the tree because it can damage the tree. The vines will eventually die and fall off. 
4. Monitor the tree to make sure more vines do not reattach. 

Taking some simple steps to remove invasive vines from our community trees can help keep them healthy, save money, and reduce hazards to property. If you need help figuring out what to do, you can contact the Tree Commission at treecommission@mountrainiermd.org