ENGLISH IVY Facts

COLORS

Dark green, some variegated varieties

LIGHT

Thrives in sun and shade

SOIL

Well drained, moist

WATER

May need to water during prolonged hot, dry spells

pH

HARDINESS

Resistant to diseases and pests. Takes several years to get established.

USES

Forms a thick, dark green carpet

TIP

ENGLISH IVY

English ivy provides a lovely, carpet-like ground cover in shady spots under trees and on slopes where few other plants can grow, but it also can be grown in the sun. Ivy clings by aerial rootlets and by rooting along the ground. Usually no more than 8 inches in height, it features dark evergreen leaves and - on older plants -- toxic black berries. Leaves on some varieties are variegated. English ivy often naturalizes and spreads throughout a landscape. Along with its use as a ground cover, English ivy can be used in hanging baskets, pots and as an outside wall cover.

English ivy provides a lovely, carpet-like ground cover in shady spots.

FERTILIZING ENGLISH IVY

English ivy tolerates a wide range of conditions, including full sun, deep shade and poor soil. It grows best in humus-rich, moist soil in partial shade. In cold winter climates, English ivy needs shade and shelter. It is not a good plant in dry climates.

For new plants, pieces of stem root readily in water. It should be watered deeply during drought and pruned in the spring to control shape and growth. In mid-spring, feed it with Vigoro® All Purpose Plant Food. Mulch between them in spring and fall until the plants are established.  Afterward, mulching in the summer provides weed control.

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