As a gardening and landscaping expert, I would strongly advise against letting English ivy grow on your house, especially if there are cracks in the walls. While ivy may seem like an attractive and low-maintenance option for covering the exterior of a building, there are several reasons why it can be detrimental to the structure and overall well-being of your home.
Firstly, English ivy is an invasive species that can quickly spread and take over an area. Once it establishes itself on the walls of your house, it can be extremely difficult to control and remove. The aggressive growth of ivy can lead to damage to the building’s facade and even penetrate cracks in the walls, exacerbating existing structural issues.
Additionally, English ivy can create a moist and damp environment against the walls of your house. This can promote the growth of mold and mildew, which can further damage the integrity of the building and potentially affect the indoor air quality. The dense growth of ivy can also prevent proper airflow and sunlight from reaching the walls, leading to increased moisture retention and potential decay.
Furthermore, allowing ivy to grow on your house can create hiding spots for pests such as rodents or insects. These critters can find refuge within the dense foliage and potentially make their way into your home, causing further problems and infestations.
While ivy may offer some aesthetic appeal, there are alternative options that can provide a similar look without the negative consequences. Consider using non-invasive climbing plants such as climbing roses, clematis, or Virginia creeper, which can add beauty to your home without compromising its structural integrity.
It is best to avoid letting English ivy grow on your house, particularly if there are cracks in the walls. The invasive nature of this species, along with the potential for damage, mold growth, and pest infestations, make it an unwise choice for the long-term health and maintenance of your home.
