Planting ivy to climb a wall or trellis will give your home the quaint beauty of an old English garden. Its delicate foliage will eagerly climb any vertical surface, providing complete coverage in only a year or two. It is available in a wide range of colors and sizes, from the classic hedera helix to curly or variegated species. However, you should know a few things about the plant before introducing it into your landscape. It requires special placement and care to thrive and is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Keep in mind all of the following suggestions when planting your ivy to help it flourish for years to come.
Ivy is an exceptional climber: it has tiny roots that secrete a glue-like substance responsible for its ability to cling to just about any surface. Although structures like brick walls and fences are acceptable locations for ivy, it should not be planted to climb trees unless it is carefully pruned. This is because ivy can completely cover a tree, depriving it of necessary sunlight. More dangerous still is the possibility of the tree toppling in high winds from the ivy’s excess weight. Even healthy trees in their prime can be overwhelmed and killed by ivy after only a few years. If you decide to plant ivy to scale a brick wall of your home, inspect it carefully to ensure that the mortar is intact. Sound brick structures will not be harmed by ivy roots, but older walls that have crumbling mortar are vulnerable to further damage.
Ivy can grow in almost any soil type, although it prefers well-drained soil. It is also a good idea to enrich the ground with either compost or peat moss. The plant is prone to damage from the cold in areas with especially frigid winters. Ivy that is accustomed to extreme heat and sunlight will easily succumb to bitter cold. Therefore, it is best to plant it in full to partial shade, especially if you live in zones four through seven. The two most popular species of ivy in North America are English ivy (Hedera helix) from Europe and Algerian ivy (Hedera algeriensis) from Africa. Hedera helix has dark green leaves with pale veins and produces small clusters of light green flowers in the fall. These are followed by small black berries that birds love to eat. Hedera algeriensis has beautiful variegated leaves with various shades of pale green edged in white. Both species are evergreens if planted properly.
Ivy should be planted in the spring after the last frost. Prior to planting, prepare the ground by working up the soil and fertilizing it with 10-10 fertilizer. Water both the ground and the ivy’s roots thoroughly before placement. Position plants as close to the base of the structure on which they will climb as possible, spacing them twelve (English) to eighteen (Algerian) inches apart. Wait several months before fertilizing the plants again; using the 10-10 mix bi-monthly throughout the growing season once you begin. Regularly prune ivy after it is established, keeping growth contained to the desired area. The plant will eagerly spread anywhere, covering the ground and choking out grass if allowed. Trim any brown spots off the plant to promote new and fuller growth. To spread the ivy, there are two options. Many gardeners have success with propagating new plants from cuttings. Trim off a piece of the plant at an intersection and submerge the base in water until sturdy roots sprout. Because of ivy’s incredible trailing abilities, it is also possible to train the plant to spread. If a portion of an established plant is pinned into soil, it will take root again. This new plant can then be separated from its parent ivy and moved to a new location.
Carefully inspect plants on a weekly basis to search for pests, especially scales, aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. If ivy is seriously infested with scales, which lurk under leaves and stems, the plant may need to be destroyed. Other pests can be combated in large numbers but may do serious damage to ivy. For this reason, regularly checking the plant throughout the spring and summer is necessary. If signs of pests like sticky, black, or web-like residue are present on the leaves, use a commercial insecticide. Read all the instructions carefully to make sure the product is safe for ivy and will kill your specific pests. You may also try home remedies: many gardeners find that spraying plants with soapy water kills the majority of small insects. Aphids, which can be black, pink, green, or white, can be eradicated with the regular application of rose dust. Remove any leaves that develop mold spots or otherwise look sickly to maintain the health of the plant.
Although ivy requires careful placement and maintenance, it is a beautiful plant that adds a lasting charm to the garden. It can protect walls and fences from weather damage and provides subtly attractive foliage throughout the year. Ivy will grow happily in dark places where few other plants thrive, making it especially loved by gardeners with shady landscapes. From forest green to brilliant gold and cream, the numerous species of ivy can add understated or brilliant color to a dull wall or fence. Give ivy the necessary attention and it will grow quickly and flourish for years to come.
