English Ivy

What you'll need:

A pot with drainage holes (about 6-8 inches wide) or a spot in your garden

Regular potting soil (nothing fancy, just something that drains well)

Watering can or spray bottle

• English Ivy plant (either a small potted plant or cuttings if you're feeling adventurous)

When to start:

English Ivy is pretty flexible and can be planted indoors or outdoors. If you're planting outside, spring or early fall are ideal because the temperatures are mild. Indoors, you can start anytime!

Choosing the right spot:

English Ivy prefers indirect light but can handle some shade too. It's perfect for those corners of your home or garden that don’t get full sun. If you’re planting outside, choose a spot where it won’t bake in direct afternoon sunlight.

Tip: English Ivy likes cool environments, so avoid placing it near heaters or radiators indoors.

If using a potted plant:

1. Fill your pot about halfway with soil.
2. Gently remove the plant from its nursery container and loosen the roots slightly.
3. Place the plant in the pot and fill the rest of the space with soil, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
4. Press down lightly on the soil around the plant to secure it.
5. Water thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes.

If using cuttings:

1. Take a cutting from an existing English Ivy plant. Choose a healthy stem with a few leaves.
2. Remove the bottom leaves, leaving just a couple at the top.
3. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder (optional but helps roots grow faster).
4. Plant the cutting in moist soil or even a glass of water until roots form.
5. Once roots appear, transplant into a pot with soil.

Planting tips:

• Space plants about 6-12 inches apart if planting multiple ivies in a garden.
• If planting in the ground, mix some compost into the soil to give the plant a good start.

Watering:

• Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Think of it like a damp sponge.
• Check the soil every few days by sticking your finger in—it should feel slightly dry before you water again.
• Water less in winter when the plant isn’t growing as much.

Light requirements:

• English Ivy does best in bright, indirect light, but it can tolerate low light too.
• If the leaves start looking pale, it might need more light. Move it closer to a window or brighter spot.

Feeding:

• Feed your English Ivy every 2-3 months with a basic houseplant fertilizer.
• In winter, you can skip feeding since the plant slows down its growth.

Pruning:

• English Ivy grows quickly and can get leggy. Trim it back every few months to keep it bushy and neat.
• Don’t worry about cutting too much—this plant is tough and will bounce back!

Minor problem solving:

• Yellow leaves? You might be overwatering. Let the soil dry out a bit before watering again.
• Dry, crispy leaves? The air might be too dry. Mist the leaves occasionally or place a humidifier nearby.
• Pests? Check under the leaves for bugs like spider mites. Wipe them off with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap.

English Ivy doesn’t produce fruits or vegetables, so there’s no harvesting involved. However, if you want to propagate more plants, you can take cuttings anytime the plant looks healthy and vibrant.

How to take cuttings:

1. Cut a healthy stem with a few leaves.
2. Remove the lower leaves and plant the cutting in soil or water.
3. Wait for roots to grow, then plant it in its own pot.

This way, you can spread your English Ivy around your home or share it with friends!

Q: Can English Ivy grow indoors and outdoors?

A: Yes! English Ivy is versatile and thrives both indoors and outdoors. Just make sure it gets enough light indoors and isn’t exposed to harsh sunlight outdoors.

Q: Is English Ivy safe for pets?

A: Unfortunately, English Ivy is toxic to cats and dogs if eaten. If you have curious pets, it’s best to keep this plant out of their reach or choose a pet-friendly alternative.

Q: Why are the leaves turning brown at the edges?

A: This could be due to dry air or underwatering. Try misting the plant or adjusting your watering schedule.

Q: How do I control its growth?

A: English Ivy can spread quickly, especially outdoors. Prune it regularly to keep it in check. If it starts climbing trees or walls where you don’t want it, gently pull it down and trim the stems.

Q: Can I grow English Ivy in water permanently?

A: While English Ivy can survive in water for a while, it’s better suited to soil in the long run. If you want to keep it in water, change the water weekly to prevent rot.