So how do I kill it in the tree. It is too high for me to reach. I tried cutting it at the base, but that had no effect, unless I missed a stem somewhere. How is it staying alive.
It looks like it is rooted in the tree.
I was go> >
> Hello,
> >
> > I have a creeping fig vine that is a little out of control in my back
> > garden. It is choking a shade tree, robbing it of sunlight. The vine is
> > very vigorous and the tree is having a hard time keeping up. It's a real
> > job keeping it off the house and pavement as well.
> >
> > I tried to kill it by cutting the vine near the base, but that had no > > effect. > >
> > Is this vine parasitic, living off of its host? It seems well attached to
> > the tree, so I don't think it will be easy to control or get rid of. Any
> > suggestions?
> >
> > I live in Northern Florida, USA.
>
> I believe 'creeping fig' and 'strangler fig' are just two
> different names for Ficus pumila. This is not a parasite.
> However, as the plant matures, it can be quite destructive,
> damaging walls and buildings and impairing the growth of even
> vigorous trees. Even the roots are invasive.
>
> If you want to keep it, cut it down to the ground every few
> years. The immature new growth is far less problematical than
> mature growth. Once a stem comes out that appears it will flower
> (not conspicuous) and fruit (large), you are in trouble.
>
> If you want to eliminate it, cut it down and then treat the new
> growth with an herbicide (e.g., Roundup). Mix the herbicide
> slightly less strong than indicated on the label to ensure it
> translocates to the widespread roots before the top growth dies.
> Otherwise, root suckers may become a problem. Repeated doses of
> herbicide might still be required.
>
> --
>
> David E. Ross
>
>
> I use Mozilla as my Web browser because I want a browser that
> complies with Web standards. See .