Some people enjoy the ubiquitous suburban ground-cover–English ivy (Hedera helix). Unfortunately, this plant weighs down and ultimately kills native trees. What’s worse, no matter how well that you think your patch is contained–you’re not stopping the birds from spreading this plant into neighboring natural areas and preserves.

The good news is, you don’t have to struggle to yank it off the tree (this is actually bad for the tree). Simply clip it at the base and enjoy watching it “melt”. Be sure to also yank the rest of it off the ground.