Root Ivy Clippings in Water

Rooting Plants in Water

• When rooting tip of stem cuttings -- in water or otherwise -- ensure you remove leaves on all parts of the stem that will be submerged, to minimize the amount of vegetation in the water that may decay and putrefy. Regularly change the water -- two to three times each week -- to keep it aerated and clean. Place cutting containers in bright but indirect light. Roots that develop in water can be very fibrous and stringy; gradually adding vermiculite or other sterile medium to the rooting water can help improve root quality. If there are too many cuttings in one container, roots get tangled and will break or tear when rooted cuttings are removed for planting.

Rooting Ivy in Water

• Take 3- to 6-inch cuttings of tender -- not woody -- tip growth for quickest rooting. Choose stem ends with a healthy cluster or crown of leaves at the growing tip. Pinch or strip off the leaves on the lower half of each stem Place the cuttings in a small jar or glass of tap water in bright indirect light. Change the tap water every few days. When cuttings are well rooted, in four to six weeks, carefully remove each one and plant it in potting soil in individual containers.

Rooting Ivy in Soil-Free Medium

• Rooting ivy in vermiculite or other soil-free potting mix is almost as simple as rooting the cutting in water, and is the approach The American Ivy Society recommends. Stick cuttings in trays or containers of moist potting mix and keep them in a warm location in bright but indirect light. Keep the rooting medium moist but not overly wet. Ivy stems should be rooted and ready for planting into larger containers within four to six weeks.

Growing Ivy

• Rooted ivy starts that will be grown as houseplants will grow well in just about any good, rich houseplant potting soil. Containers should have adequate holes for good drainage. Water ivy infrequently but thoroughly. If grown near a south- or west-facing window, provide filtered light to prevent too much heat and drying. Alternatively, place ivy plants near northern or eastern windows. You can also grow ivy under fluorescent lights. Fertilize monthly when plants are actively growing.