Will Ground Ivy Kill My Tomato Plants?

Ground ivy is a common garden weed that can rapidly spread and compete with desirable plants for water, nutrients and sunlight. It is often described as an invasive species and can quickly take over an area, leading to concerns about its impact on other plants, such as tomato plants.

What is Ground Ivy?

Ground ivy, also known as creeping Charlie, is a low-growing perennial weed that thrives in damp, shaded areas. It has a characteristic creeping growth habit and produces scalloped leaves that form a dense mat on the ground. The plant also produces small, blue-violet flowers in spring.

Does Ground Ivy Harm Tomato Plants?

The good news is that ground ivy is not typically harmful to tomato plants. Unlike other garden weeds that produce allelopathic compounds that prevent other plants from growing, ground ivy does not have a significant impact on tomato plants. However, it can compete with tomato plants for water, nutrients and sunlight, especially if it grows in close proximity to the tomatoes.

How to Control Ground Ivy in a Garden

If ground ivy is present in your garden, it is best to control it by physical or chemical means. Pulling the plant out by hand can be effective, but it can be difficult to eradicate completely, as even small pieces of the plant can resprout. Mulching around the tomato plants can also help to suppress ground ivy growth and prevent its spread.

Chemical control of ground ivy is possible with herbicides that are specifically designed to kill broadleaf weeds. These herbicides, such as 2,4-D and dicamba, are effective at killing ground ivy, but care must be taken when using them around tomato plants, as they can also harm desirable plants if used incorrectly.

Tips for Preventing Ground Ivy in a Garden

The best way to prevent ground ivy from taking over your garden is to maintain healthy soil and prevent the weed from taking root in the first place. This can be accomplished by regularly weeding your garden and by mulching around your plants to prevent weed growth. Soil testing can also help you identify any nutrient imbalances that may be contributing to weed growth, and can help you to adjust your soil amendments accordingly.

Conclusion

While ground ivy can be a nuisance in the garden, it is not typically harmful to tomato plants. However, it can compete with tomato plants for water, nutrients and sunlight, so steps should be taken to control its growth and prevent its spread. Physical and chemical control methods can be effective, and preventative measures, such as maintaining healthy soil, can help to reduce the presence of this weed in the garden.