Spring Fever Projects and Volunteer Ideas 🌿

There’s something about this time of year that gives us that little burst of energy to get outside, clean things up, and start fresh. A little decluttering and reorganizing of the yard and garden. 👩‍🌾🌷

As the earth begins to bloom again, it’s easy to notice what’s growing. And sometimes that includes things we don’t think twice about.

Have you ever seen a tree completely wrapped in ivy, it can look almost beautiful at first. But over time, that ivy can slowly take over.

It blocks light, adds weight, and it holds moisture against the bark and eventually, it can weaken or even kill the tree. I witnessed this sadness in my neighbor's yard and after that, I didn't allow Ivy on my trees again.

Trees support birds, insects, wildlife and so many other forms of life and helping the trees can be surprisingly simple.

There’s a method often taught in volunteer programs where you cut the ivy around the base of the tree, then clear a small section up the trunk (about 2 to 3 feet). That gap keeps the vines from reconnecting and stops the flow of nutrients to the ivy above. The rest is left alone to die back naturally over time.

Here’s one short video that shows how it works.

It’s one of those small actions that can make a real difference over time.

Do you have trees being strangled by ivy or are you looking for some volunteer ideas?

Call your local parks department or conservation group for information on programs near you. You will be surprised on how many trees need our help.

Share your ideas for spring projects and volunteering below.

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