Trailing Ivy Container Plants

Ivy in Containers

• English and most other ivy varieties grow well in all types of containers, from large pots and planter boxes to hanging planters and window boxes. In cooler climates solid green and some variegated ivies can tolerate full sun – set them out during cooler seasons, so they can acclimate -- though in general, bright filtered, dappled or partial shade is ideal. Grow potted ivy plants in rich soil-free potting mix and water them when the top inch is dry. Fertilize monthly with water-soluble high-nitrogen fertilizer, except during summer heat and winter cold, when plants don’t grow.

Hanging Planters

• Ivy is quite striking when it trails down from window boxes and hanging planters. Versatile English ivy is the best known among the various species. It comes in hundreds of different cultivars, including light, bright colored and variegated forms that add cheer to shady spots. Algerian ivy, which has very large leaves, also grows vigorously. Less hardy exotic ivies are also popular choices because they can easily be brought indoors in winter. Be vigilant about watering ivies in hanging planters, because the soil volume is limited -- which limits the amount of water available.

Year-Round Plantings

• In milder climates trailing ivies can be permanent outdoor residents. Water outdoor ivy even in the winter, because cold weather and wind can be quite drying. Dramatic on their own, in large containers trailing ivies can also be the year-round constants among seasonally changing plantings. In winter and early spring, for example, they help set off the bright colors of bulbs, then hide the withering foliage. Ivy can fill in between fragrant stock, snapdragon and dianthus plants in spring; zinnias and miniature sunflowers in summer; and chrysanthemums, calendulas and ornamental kales in fall.

House Plants

• Where winters are severe, grow trailing ivy outdoors in smaller containers so they can easily be brought indoors. The foliage can tolerate some frost, but the roots are more vulnerable to cold when plants are grown in containers. Ivies do fairly well as houseplants, but they benefit from shady “outdoors time” as often as possible. Full southern or western exposures can be too intense, especially in summer, so either filter the light with shades or blinds or find a bright north- or east-facing window. As houseplants they also need cool temperatures, especially at night, so locate them in a little used, unheated room. Keep the air surrounding ivy plants moderately humid by setting pots atop drain trays full of pebbles and half-filled with water.