Landscaping a Hillside With Ivy

Remove existing vegetation from the hillside prior to planting. Till the vegetation under with a power tiller and remove any debris, such as broken limbs, that can detract from the ivy bed.

Lay jute erosion netting over the the hillside to prevent the soil from washing away before the ivy establishes. Anchor the netting in place using U-shaped garden stakes. The jute decomposes as the ivy becomes established.

Plant the ivy transplants at the same depth they were at their nursery pots. Space the plants 12 to 18 inches apart in all directions. A closer spacing covers the hillside within one year, while a greater spacing may take up to two years to cover the hill completely.

Water the ivy immediately after transplanting so the soil is evenly moist to a 6-inch depth. Water once weekly during cool weather and up to twice a week during hot, dry weather.

Fertilize ivy in spring, midsummer and late summer. Apply a 12-4-8 blend fertilizer at the rate of 1 pound per 1,000 square feet. The numbers indicate the percentages of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the product. Water the ivy thoroughly after each fertilizer application.

Mow the ivy once yearly in mid- to late-summer to remove overgrown plant stems. Set the mower blade 4 inches above the ground so the blade only removes the overgrown plants and doesn't damage the growing crowns of the ivy.