English ivy care guide
Hedera helix
Also known as: Ivy, Common ivy
Pets and children
Considered toxic
Saponins in the leaves and berries can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and abdominal pain, and the sap can irritate skin; keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water English ivy
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 4 days
- Water thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, as a guide, in the cool of morning or evening in midsummer to avoid steaming the roots.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 6 days
- Growth picks up in the cooler weather, so water about when the topsoil dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 10 days
- Water roughly two to three days after the soil dries; keep outdoor plants on the dry side.
Light and placement for English ivy
Generally happiest in bright shade or half shade, such as light through a sheer curtain; variegated kinds lose their pattern in poor light, and midsummer sun and stuffy heat are best avoided.
Overwintering English ivy
Overwintering guide: −5°C (23°F) or above
Hardy enough to overwinter outdoors; pots generally take around −5°C, but as a guide give variegated kinds and small plants a frost-free spot under the eaves or a bright place indoors.
Fertilizing and repotting English ivy
Fertilizer
Slow-release fertilizer about every two months in the spring and autumn growing seasons is generally enough; none in the heat of midsummer or in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with English ivy
- Spider mites multiply in dry indoor air, and the leaves turn pale and drop.
- Hot, humid summer air steams the plant, and the leaves die back from the base.
- Overwatering rots the roots; the leaves darken and wilt.
Tips for growing English ivy
- Mist the undersides of the leaves and keep it in an airy spot to hold off spider mites.
- Cut back long runners to encourage branching; the cuttings root in water.
- Planted in the ground it spreads vigorously, so decide its limits and keep it in check.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
