This broad-leaved, evergreen, clinging vine is most often used as a ground cover but it also climbs on trees, buildings and other objects. Grow this vine in shaded spots as it may winterburn on exposed sites in cold climates. Some of the cultivars offer improved cold tolerance.
Plant ivy in partial to full shade in well-drained garden loam enriched with peat moss, compost or leaf mold. Ivy in full sun tends to winter-burn, so it is particularly important to have them planted in the shade in Zones 4-7 where winters very are cold. Set the plants out in spring, placing English ivy 12 inches apart. It is important to be sure that the plant and the soil are well watered prior to setting them. If the plant is to grow up a wall, put them as close as possible to the base of the wall. New plants should be pruned to 6' and then not fertilized for the first 3-4 months. Once established, feed them every other month with an all purpose (10-10-10) fertilizer during their growing season. Regular pruning 2-3 times a year will promote fuller growth, but the plants can be trimmed at any time there are bare spots. Ivy may be propagated by cuttings, which are only partially successful, or by layering (pin a section of the stem to the ground, where it will root, then once rooted you may sever the new start from the parent plant).
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3/14/00. This steep slope of the back yard needed help, so we planted more English ivy (var. 'Thorndale'). Last year was the first year that we saw significant growth. Hopefully this year will be a good one, too, because we need to keep the slope from washing.
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3/22/00. We planted English ivy on this side yard, where we were unable to grow grass, about 6 or 7 years ago. Last year it finally grew some.
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5/7/00. Back deck ivy needs pruning and shaping up.
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5/8/00. This year looks like the "leap" year.
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6/10/00. Pruned and looking very neat.
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