Dear Eric,
I’m dealing with a frustrating situation involving my neighbor, whose yard is becoming increasingly overgrown. She has let her plants grow unchecked, and unfortunately, they are spilling over into my yard. A particularly invasive vine, Porcelain Berry, has wrapped around one of my trees, strangling four limbs so far and causing them to break.
I’ve also noticed rats in her yard, prompting me to set four traps that I re-bait quarterly. Every time I try to manage the encroaching plants, she rushes outside to yell at me. I reported the issue to the city, but nothing has been done.
My neighbor, who is in her late 60s or early 70s, is widowed and childless. I am 76, live alone, and have three children who visit regularly. They are just as concerned as I am. Unfortunately, I have heart problems, which prevent me from doing much yard work myself. I plan to hire my lawn crew to mow down the encroaching plants, remove the vines, trim the bush they’re coming from, and possibly build a low wall along our shared border. However, my main concern is my tree. It is the only tree I have that provides shade to my house on that side.
— Growing Problem
Dear Growing,
It sounds like you’re dealing with a difficult situation. A good neighbor understands the impact of their actions on others, and it seems your neighbor may not be fully aware of how her yard is affecting yours.
Porcelain Berry is an invasive vine that’s difficult to control once it’s established, so it’s great that you’re taking proactive steps. Some states offer resources for managing this plant, so I’d recommend checking your state’s Department of Agriculture website for advice.
Regarding your tree, talk to your lawn crew about your concerns. According to Trees Atlanta, an organization focused on tree conservation, the best way to remove Porcelain Berry is to carefully unwind the vines from branches and trunks using gloves and clippers. Once the vines are free, they should be cut at the base, killing the vines that are too high to reach. If the task seems too complex for your lawn crew, consider consulting an arborist or a professional tree care service.
To avoid further confrontation with your neighbor, try sending her a note outlining your plans for the wall and other landscaping efforts. Given your past experiences, it’s unlikely a conversation will resolve the issue, but a note may help prevent another argument. It could also be helpful to have one of your children present when the work is done to offer support.
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