What Helps Ivy Grow?

Growing Indoor Ivy

• Indoor ivy is among the most disease- and pest-free houseplants one can grow. So long as a few basic cultural considerations are adhered to, it will thrive. Make sure that the ivy receives as much bright, direct light as possible. Water it thoroughly and allow the top 1/2 inch of soil to dry before watering again. Ivies do best with a relatively high humidity. Keep them away from heat sources and supplement the humidity with a bowl of water nearby or by occasionally lightly misting them with a spray bottle. Fertilize with a foliage houseplant food when they are actively growing.

Hedera Ivies

• Ivies of the genus Hedera perform best in rich, moist soils that are high in organic matter. They are tolerant of a range of soil pH, but prefer a pH around 6.0. Full to partial shade is best, as Hedera ivies can scorch in full sun. To enhance growth, a complete fertilizer with a nitrogen to phosphorous to potassium ratio of 3:1:2 or 2:1:2 should be used at a rate of 2.5 to 3 pounds of actual nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of growing area each month while the ivy is actively growing.

Parthenocissus Ivies

• Like Hedera ivies, Parthenocissus ivies grow best with rich, moist soils. Unlike Hedera ivies, though, they prefer exposures with partial shade to full sun. Virginia creeper, another Parthenocissus ivy, is more tolerant of drought, full sun and rough conditions than the related Boston ivy. Pruning back growth as needed will help keep these types of ivy healthy and prevent them from outcompeting other desirable plants growing nearby. Prune at least once per year, in spring.

Common Problems of Ivies

• Though usually disease-free, ivies of all types can succumb to fungal problems if too wet. Roots can rot, and fungus can develop on the foliage if ivy is planted in areas that do not drain well or are in standing water. Few insects bother ivies, but spider mites can infest them. Symptoms of mite damage include a spotted, mottled appearance to the leaves. Insecticides will not be effective, as mites are arachnids, not insects. A miticide or pesticide labeled for mites should be used to control spider mites.