On 2013-05-06 21:38:47 +0100, TimLondon said:

Hi, should I encourage ivy to grow or does it become unmanageable? I've
just bought a house that already has some but it wants to spread across
the side of the house. While I think it's attractive I don't want to
create a beast that'll be a headache in the future! Any thoughts
welcome.

We have two types growing up part of our house and they definitely have
to be kept under control. Our bathroom window was almost covered on one
sideby the time someone found time to clear it! That said, if you're
prepared to go up a ladder a couple of times a year, it shouldn't be
too much of a problem for you. Just keep clear the bits that are
important like roof tiles, gutters and windows! We find that lots of
birds nest in it and eat the berries. The bees love the nectar from the
flowers, so it's a welcome plant for those reasons alone.
--

Sacha
www.hillhousenursery.com
South Devon
www.helpforheroes.org.uk