Hello,
I recently moved to a house with a maple tree, and a large trumpet vine climbing it. The vine reaches nearly to the top of the tree (~30 feet), and spreads the full span. Is this vine detrimental to the thee, or will become over time? Is it recommended removing it?
Thank you.
We’ve had a similar question in the past about Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans) – See Ask a Master Gardener. Can a rose or trumpet vine growing on a pine tree kill it? See also Trees Unlimited. Vines can kill a tree – NJ tree conservation. Both articles discuss the adverse effects vines may have on trees. The trumpet vine (Campsis radicans) is an aggressive plant that grows rapidly and may out-compete a tree for light, water and nutrients such that the tree could be at risk of not being able to sustain itself. Vines may also damage bark. As well, the extra weight of the trumpet vine could break or damage the tree limbs.
It is not possible to predict if and when your maple tree will be adversely affected by the trumpet vine, or indeed if the tree is already being harmed by the vine. If you do wish to keep the vine, I suggest pruning it to a height that allows the tree to gets lots of sun, without the burden of the extra weight of the vine. This might be attractive (and quite healthy for both the tree and the vine) – although pruning may need to be done vigorously and often, given how quickly trumpet vine grows.
All the best with your tree and vine!
June 24 2024