How to plant ivy around an oil tank

red robin · Hazel Tree Joined: 21 Apr 2009 Posts: 12 Location: athlone

The dreaded eyesore the oil tank. I have planted different size conifers around our oil tank but would love to cover it completely with ivy. Should I just plant an ivy plant under the tank and then train it to cover it. Has anyone any tips or advice and how long would it take to cover it. Smile

michael brenock · Posted: Wed May 20, 2009 8:26 am Post subject:

no never plant anything directly under the tank as spillages will occur. plant at least a foot away from the outline of the tank and direct the growing stems towards the tank when it begins to grow.
michael brenock horticultural advisor (retired)

Liparis · Posted: Wed May 20, 2009 9:14 am Post subject:

I agree with Michael, I've seen many disasters and costly plantings where people have planted too close to tanks. The soil is probably already contaminated around the immediate vicinity of the tank and plants just won't survive in it. Having an ivy grow over the tank may not be the best idea either as some splashing at the very best will occur and the plant will die, eventually complete die-back will occur. Stick with shrubs or something planted clear of the tank and allow their growth to hide it.
Bill.