English Ivy

Lighting

Your English Ivy isn’t high-maintenance, but it does crave gentle light. Indoors, provide bright, indirect light. South-facing windows with sheers are perfect. Outdoors, dappled shade under taller trees keeps your plant happy.

Watering

English Ivy prefers consistent moisture, but avoid soggy soil. Let the top inch of soil dry before watering thoroughly. During winter, reduce watering as the plant goes dormant.

Soil

Well-draining soil is key! Use a commercial potting mix or mix your existing soil with compost or peat moss for optimal drainage and aeration.

Feeding

Feed your English Ivy monthly during spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer diluted according to package instructions. Take a break from feeding during fall and winter.

Pruning

Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and keeps your English Ivy in check. Pinch off leggy stems or trim back overgrown areas whenever needed.

General Care

English Ivy is a low-maintenance champion! Remove any yellow or damaged leaves to promote healthy growth. Occasionally wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and promote shine.

When It Arrives

Unpack your new English Ivy and give it a drink! Water it thoroughly until water drains freely from the bottom of the pot. Find a spot with bright, indirect light indoors or dappled shade outdoors. Let your ivy adjust for a few days before repotting if needed.

During the First Year

This is a time for growth! Water your English Ivy consistently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry before watering again. Avoid soggy soil. During spring and summer, feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer diluted according to package instructions. Prune regularly to encourage bushier growth and maintain your desired shape.

After the First Year

Your established English Ivy requires minimal care. Water when the top inch of soil dries out and adjust watering frequency based on the season. Reduce watering in winter. Continue monthly feeding during spring and summer, and stop fertilizing in fall and winter. Prune as needed to maintain shape and encourage growth. Enjoy your thriving green companion for years to come.

When It Arrives

Hold off on fertilizer for now. Let your new plant adjust to its environment for a few weeks before introducing any additional nutrients.

During the First Year

During spring and summer, give your English Ivy a boost with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength according to the package instructions. Apply it once a month to promote healthy growth. Take a break from fertilizing in fall and winter as the plant’s growth slows.

After the First Year

Established English Ivy needs less feeding. Continue with the same balanced fertilizer, diluted to half strength, but apply it only once every two months during spring and summer. Skip fertilizer entirely during fall and winter.

Equipment Needed

Sharp shears or pruning snips are all you need for a clean cut.

Best Time to Prune

Prune your English Ivy in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. This allows the plant to recover before putting on its spring show.

Steps to Prune

Identify any leggy stems or overgrown areas you want to control. Simply snip them back to a desired length or remove them entirely at the base. For bushier growth, pinch off new growth at the tips.

After Pruning Care

Your English Ivy will bounce back quickly! Water your plant thoroughly after pruning to encourage new growth. Remove any pruned foliage for a clean and tidy appearance.

Is English Ivy difficult to care for?

English Ivy is a very easy-to-care-for plant, making it perfect for beginners or busy households. It thrives on neglect and requires minimal watering and feeding.

Where can I plant English Ivy?

English Ivy thrives in both indoor and outdoor settings. Indoors, choose a location with bright, indirect light. Outdoors, plant it in a shady area with dappled sunlight to avoid harsh afternoon sun.

How often should I water my English Ivy?

Water your English Ivy when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can damage the roots. During winter, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy.

Does English Ivy need fertilizer?

While not essential, fertilizing your English Ivy can promote healthy growth. During spring and summer, feed your plant a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.

Is English Ivy toxic to pets?

Yes, English Ivy is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep this plant out of reach of curious cats and dogs.

Can I train my English Ivy to climb?

Absolutely! English Ivy is a natural climber. Provide a trellis or moss pole for your plant to grip onto as it grows. You can also train it to cascade over shelves or furniture.

How fast does English Ivy grow?

English Ivy is a slow to moderate growing vine. With proper care, it can grow 1-2 feet per year. Regular pruning can help control its growth and maintain the desired shape.