Brick Walls and Plantings

Should I allow ivy or other plants to grow on my brick walls?

The short answer is “no.” Plants that grow on brick walls force root tendrils into mortar joints. Moisture can then penetrate deeply into the wall, and the freeze-thaw cycle, as well as the mechanical action of the roots, can cause serious damage to the mortar and even the bricks. This can dramatically shorten the life of a brick wall.

The issue becomes more complex when plants have grown on a brick wall for a long time. Without great care, removing old growth can cause further damage to the wall. Consult with a professional mason before removing extensive old growth.