Is creeping fig bad for walls? Well, as a gardening and landscaping expert, I have to say that while creeping fig can certainly add a beautiful and lush look to walls, it does have the potential to cause some damage.
One of the main concerns with creeping fig is its ability to penetrate and damage masonry. The roots of creeping fig are quite strong and can find their way into small cracks and crevices in walls. Over time, these roots can widen the cracks, potentially causing structural damage to the masonry. This is especially true for older or weaker walls that may already have some existing damage.
I have personally seen instances where creeping fig has caused significant damage to walls. In one particular case, a homeowner had allowed the creeping fig to grow unchecked on a brick wall for many years. The roots had spread throughout the mortar joints and caused them to deteriorate, resulting in loose bricks and an unstable wall. The cost to repair the wall was substantial and could have been avoided with proper maintenance and control of the creeping fig.
In addition to damaging masonry, creeping fig can also cause issues with paint. The plant produces a sticky sap or secretion that can be quite difficult to remove from painted surfaces. If the creeping fig is growing directly against a painted wall, the sap can seep into the paint and cause it to blister or peel. This can be a frustrating and time-consuming problem to deal with, especially if the affected area is large.
To prevent or minimize damage from creeping fig, there are a few steps you can take. Firstly, regular maintenance and pruning of the plant is essential. By keeping the growth in check, you can prevent it from becoming too invasive and causing damage to walls. Trim back any roots that are growing into cracks or crevices, and remove any tendrils that are starting to attach themselves to the masonry.
Another option is to create a barrier between the creeping fig and the wall. This can be done by installing a trellis or wire mesh a few inches away from the wall. The creeping fig can then be trained to grow on the trellis instead of directly on the wall, reducing the risk of damage.
It’s important to note that while creeping fig can be damaging, it can also be managed and controlled with proper care. Many homeowners successfully grow creeping fig on their walls without any issues by simply staying vigilant and taking the necessary precautions.
While creeping fig can add a beautiful and lush look to walls, it does have the potential to cause damage. Its strong roots can penetrate cracks in masonry and its sticky secretions can damage paint. However, with regular maintenance, pruning, and proper care, the risks can be minimized, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of creeping fig without the worry of damage to your walls.
