Problems With Boston Ivy

Though Boston Ivy is deemed by many as aesthetically pleasing and can reduce cooling costs by shading the outside of a building, it can also be dangerous if handled the wrong way. Ingesting the plant, as well as removing it from a building, can be quite hazardous.

Background

• Known to adhere to a multitude of surfaces through the use of its tendrils, Boston Ivy is a dense plant that can reach up to 50 feet in length. This member of the grape family is versatile and can be found all over the world in both rural and urban environments.

Uses

• The plant is normally grown for aesthetic reasons, as many people enjoy the look that it offers the exterior of a building, or a wall or fence like that found at Wrigley Field in Chicago, as one example. An added bonus of the ivy on the exterior of a building is that the shade provided by the plant cuts back on cooling costs.

Problems with Removal

• Boston Ivy does not pierce a surface that it has clung to, instead adhering to it with tendrils. However, the bond it creates is strong enough to cause damage if removed too fast. While Boston Ivy should be treated as a permanent fixture, in the event of necessary removal, sever the plant from the root and then wait until the vines deteriorate.

Allergies

• Some people find that they have an allergic skin reaction when they handle Boston Ivy. Such a reaction can include a rash that is easily spread with additional exposure to the oils in the ivy. If a reaction occurs, a person should wash and disinfect the skin and, depending on the severity of the reaction, consult a dermatologist.

Poison

• Boston Ivy is extremely poisonous if ingested. The plant should be kept out of reach from pets and small children to prevent such an occurrence. If ingestion does take place, seek immediate medical assistance.

Photosynthesis

• Be careful in regard to location when planting Boston Ivy. Should the thick vines climb onto other plants or trees, sunlight will be blocked out and prevent photosynthesis from occurring, thus killing the covered plants and trees.