How long does it take for the vines to strangle the tree?
It depends on the vine and the tree type. An evergreen vine
would be the strongest .Then a perennial vine. Then a annual vine.
Trees can be hard wood or soft wood. I have seen a wisteria, grape,
smilax, poison ivy and Virginia creeper vine at the base up to 12
inches in diameter. It will vary on many of these factors. To
prevent it you need to put down a preemergent for any mature seeds
it will drop. You will also need to remove it at the root ball.
Being careful not to hurt the tree. Vines usually have airborial
roots and areas where they crawl under the surface up to about 8
inches. They are hard to control. But as far as putting a time
frame on it? Not possible to many aspects and circumstances to
consider. Hope this helps.