How to Grow Virginia Creepers Vs. Ivy

Virginia Creeper

• 1

  Stratify the seeds of the Virginia creeper for two to three months in the refrigerator before planting them outdoors in spring or fall. Plant stratified seeds 3/8 inches deep in the soil, with partial shade to full sunlight exposure. Avoid planting more than 10 plants per square foot.

• 2

  Water the soil to a depth of 6 inches every week, using a soaker hose. Avoid overwatering the soil, but irrigate until evenly moist. Once established, the plant is fairly drought tolerant and survives without soil moisture for slightly longer periods.

• 3

  Train the creeper to climb a support structure such as a fence, wall or trellis. Pound a tiny nail to the structure -- and wind the vine to it, so the tendrils spread over it. Remove the nail when the plant is established so it grows naturally.

• 4

  Inspect the Virginia creeper for pests including caterpillars, beetles, leaf hoppers and scale. Spray infestations with an insecticide to control spread and damage.

Ivy

• 5

  Plant English or Boston ivy in well-draining, moist and nutrient-dense soil. English ivy prefers partial shade during the hottest time of day, while Boston ivy thrives in full sun. Space multiple plants 12 inches apart.

• 6

  Water the ivy immediately after planting, and then once every week in full sun or periods of drought. Water once every 10 days to two weeks in shaded areas. Once established, irrigate the soil only when the plants receive less than 1 inch of natural rainfall per week.

• 7

  Inspect the ivy for spider mites and treat with antibacterial soap or insecticide. Treat fungal diseases such as gray mold and leaf spots with a registered fungicide.