Garden Weed Killer And Adjacent Trees....

[MattA777]

I have a vigorous ivy which has been majorly cut back and I have a weed killer to treat the remaining stump. I am concerned though about using the solution as I have a young but established Apple Tree with a surface distance from the ivy of around five feet. I would only guess that both plants have roots possibly entwining. Would it therefore be unwise to carry out my planned action?

Thanking any members in advance of your reply....

[ladybirder]

I wouldn't do it again Matt. I killed my beloved Acer through misjudging the space. Like you, I think the roots were intertwined. Up to you though if you want to risk it of course. Good luck.

[Tilly2]

Just cut the stump, as near as you can to the ground, and leave it. It will die off, eventually.

[vulcan42]

cut the stump close to the ground as tilly says and then if you want it gone, hire a stump grinder.

[TonyV]

What I've done in the past, not with Ivy but tree stumps is to drill a few 13mm holes and pour appropriate poison into them.

[MattA777]

Thank you guys!
-TonyV, I have prior to posting this question drilled a 15 to 16mm hole in the ivy stump- (which is a multiple thick stump)
With the intention of either using the weed treatment OR rock salt which someone suggested? I’m really not sure- I’m thinking to try the salt as that might be a milder option less likely to damage the apple tree. The ivy is one of four I planted about 10/11 years ago at my regret!

[TonyV]

Matt if you treat from above ground level, whatever you use will have no affect on your Apple tree, IMO salt will have little effect, use a stump chemical.

[New Judge]

//...use a stump chemical.//

Or Jeyes Fluid.

[TonyV]

NJ that's a good alternative.

[Chipchopper]

I think it would be wise to cover the stump with polythene to stop the rain washing away the treated stump, alternatively plug the holes with clay.

[MattA777]

Did the deed on two ivy’s today (after apologising to them)
I will post any obvious results in here.

[TonyV]

What did end up using?

[MattA777]

TonyV, I used “Tree Stump Killer”.....that’s what’s on the packet containing 3 sachets. I bored about 5 holes in one ivy plant and 4 in the other. Poured in the solution and stuffed cotton pads in each one- impregnating with more solution and poked the pads all the way in with a screwdriver. Not sure how long I need to wait for results-if any. I’m guessing too that it depends on how the weather develops.

[MattA777]

Day4/5 after treatment..........Zilch, nahdah, - Young growth not even wilting. Seems to be laughing at the Stump Killer (and me) or am I just too impatient? Actually thinking about getting my grinder out to wrestle it to the ground!