1. Use loppers to cut the big vines-once about a foot off the ground, and again about 2 to four feet higher.  This ensures killing the ivy and reducing the chance of re-grafting.

2. Use a hand saw to remove the smaller sections of ivy

3. Let the ivy die and dry

4. Pull the ivy out of the tree-it might even fall out on it’s own.

If you follow these steps, you may reduce nutrient competition between the ivy and your tree along with reducing other problems associated with ivy.  Also, you may reduce the chance of having to contact a tree service like Appalachian Tree Service in the event of a tree dying.