Ivy and trees

I have a large tree in my hedge (not sure of the species) which is very healthy but has a LOT of ivy growing on it.

Presumably this ivy will eventually harm the tree?

Is the best solution to the problem simply to cut through the ivy's stems as low on the trunk as possible and then just let the ivy die off?

I ask as I have a vague recollection of ivy also absorbing water and nurients through the tendrils that it uses to cling to the tree, therefore cutting its main stems may not make a huge difference? Or maybe my memory is playing tricks.

 

I believe you can cut it as close to ground as possible, don't rip it off it could damage the bark of the tree underneath. The main threat is weight, lots of mature trees fall down in high winds because of the ivy, however, if managed it provides a beneficial nectar source to bees in early Autumn when little else is still flowering.

 

Thanks very much, all points duly noted.