Removing Ivy from ground at base of tree

Hi,

I have just cleared about 15-20sq_m of ivy from around the base of my lime tree. The ivy roots however are quite deep and extensive below ground.

Is there anything I can put in the soil to kill the roots and prevent regrowth of the ivy without harming the tree?

I intend to place a layer of seed resistant fabric onto the soil before covering with gravel but I am concerned the ivy will grow through.

Thanks,
MR Not_green_fingered

 

Hi @MR Not_green_fingered and welcome!. Unfortunately anything put in soil that would kill ivy roots would also kill other roots e.g. tree! If you have left 'stumps' of ivy then you can apply brushwood or stump killer directly to the stem end. Otherwise I'd wait to see if there's any regrowth and spray something like glyphosate directly onto it.

 

I don't think ivy regows from just roots but any tiny pieces of top growth and roots will.
I'd wait and apply SBK to any regrowth, with a sprayer, to the manufacturer's instructions.