# Glacier Ivy Care
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Container and Potting Mix
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Painted and ceramic containers are similar to plastic in that they are not porous. Glacier Ivy can be grown in a table-top container, in a large floor-standing container with other plants or in a hanging container as long as there are drain holes in the bottom of the container. Plastic or clay pots may be used. Plastic and ceramic are better for people who tend to underwater as these materials keep the soil moist longer. Clay is better when over-watering tends to be a problem. It is more porous and allows the soil to dry more quickly. Plant the ivy in a peat-based growing medium that does not contain soil. It should have perlite or vermiculite mixed in for improved drainage.
Sunlight
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Place the Glacier Ivy in a bright sunny location but not in direct sunlight. An area right next to a southern-facing window should provide enough sunlight. Low light causes the leaves to lose their variegation and turn solid green. In homes without a bright enough location, a fluorescent grow light can be used to provide the additional light needed to maintain leaf variegation.
Water and Fertilizer
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From spring until winter, water the ivy with room temperature water often enough to keep the soil just slightly moist. Allow the top of the soil to dry slightly between waterings in the winter. Provide plenty of humidity by misting the plant in the morning and setting it above a humidity tray. Give the plant high-nitrogen houseplant fertilizer once per month from spring until winter.
Outdoor Ivy
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Ivy can be trimmed back as necessary to maintain a smaller plant size. Outdoor Glacier Ivy should be planted in organically rich, loamy soil, although it will grow in most soil types. It grows best in partial or full shade. A full sun exposure is okay for this plant in cooler climates. In hot southern climates it should be planted where it will be shaded throughout the afternoon, if not all day. Glacier prefers soil that remains evenly moist and should be watered regularly, especially for the first year or two until it gets established. Once established, it will usually grow fine without supplemental water and is actually somewhat drought tolerant. Place a 2-to-3-inch layer of mulch down around the ivy to help maintain moist soil conditions.
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