Roll up your sleeves if you want to get rid of ivy
Q I recently had a block wall put up to replace a chain link fence that was covered in ivy. My problem is the ivy keeps growing around the new fence. I have tried vinegar to kill it but no luck. I have a dog, so I don't want to use anything poisonous. Any ideas?
A There's a reason English ivy is on the invasive plant list. It's quite pretty when it grows up a wall or covers an otherwise unsightly fence, but it is not well-behaved. I've seen it used as a ground cover, but the lower vines become woody, and it ends up providing cover for rats and mice. If allowed to grow up the trunk of a tree, it can eventually girdle or smother and kill it. If it grows up a wall, it can damage stucco with its aerial rootlets. Oddly enough, when I try to grow it as a houseplant, it always succumbs to red spider mites. If you have one as a houseplant, don't leave it outside since it can escape its pot if you turn your back.
As you've discovered, it's tedious to eradicate. First, sever the vines at ground level. The roots aren't very deep, but the vines will root wherever they touch the ground. This means that you'll have to repeatedly dig out the ivy as it emerges. Wear protective gloves and long sleeves, as the sap can cause contact dermatitis. Dispose of the removed plant material in the regular trash (do not compost). If you get tired of digging, Roundup herbicide should be effective. After cutting the vines to the ground, wait until you see tender new leaves emerge, then apply. The immature leaves are much more susceptible to herbicide since they lack the waxy cuticle of older leaves. Take care to follow the directions on the label, and don't allow it to contact any desirable plants. Keep pets away until it dries.
Q Why can't I find any miniature roses in Southern California for sale?
A Miniature roses grow very well in Southern California, since they like warmer weather and don't like temperatures below 32 degrees. The larger garden centers and home improvement stores usually only carry a limited selection in the springtime (when they are normally planted). I have occasionally seen them sold in the indoor plant departments of these stores, especially around Valentine's Day.
If you are looking for a specific variety, I recommend ordering them bareroot in December from a locally owned nursery or a mail-order source. Another resource can be your local rose society or garden club. They often has plant sales or trading events.
Have questions? Email gardening@scng.com.