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Step-by-Step Guide on How to Take Care of An Ivy Plant

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published January 16, 2025

Ivy plants are remarkable additions to any space, bringing a touch of greenery and vibrancy. However, proper care is essential to ensure they thrive. Before diving into the specifics of how to take care of an ivy plant, it’s important to gather the necessary tools and materials.

Tools and Materials

Understanding Your Ivy Plant

Ivy is a low-maintenance plant with various species, including English, Persian and Algerian Ivies. It can be grown indoors in containers or outdoors as ground cover or wall climbers. However, before investing a great deal of attention and care in ivy maintenance, it’s important to consider their growth habits and understand ​how much space they need

Taking Care of Your Ivy Plant

The following are a few things you can keep in mind when taking care of your ivy plant:  

Soil Requirements

Ivy thrives in well-drained soil that retains moisture but doesn’t get waterlogged. An ideal mix has a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Regularly check the soil condition to ensure it isn't compacted or overly dry. Re-potting may be necessary when the plant outgrows its current container, using fresh soil to support new growth. 

Light: A Key Ingredient for Ivy

Ivy grows best in light conditions but does not grow in direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can burn its leaves, although exposure to too little light turns the plant weak and not so bright. If your plants are grown indoors, place them near the window in an area with indirect sunlight exposure. If you’re planting the ivy outdoors, a shaded area is ideal.  

Watering Your Ivy Plant

One frequently asked question about caring for ivy indoors is how often it should be watered. Ivy is quite happy in a somewhat dry environment. Water the crops with a spray bottle once the top inch of soil over the pot becomes dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the pot has proper drainage.

Temperature Control

Ivy plants grow best in cool temperatures. They are not fussy about specific temperature ranges and can survive in 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°) temperatures. Some are sensitive to moderate humidity levels, so if the home is dry, it is advisable to mist the foliage from time to time or place it near a humidifier.

Tip

Poor airflow can lead to mold and mildew on the vines.

How Much Space Does an Ivy Plant Need?

The density of the environment, whether you are growing ivy indoors or outdoors, is quite important for its further development. When grown inside, give the vines sufficient space to run, trailing or climbing along a trellis, pole or hanging basket.

Outdoors, ivy can spread extensively, covering walls, fences or even the ground. If you wonder how much space ivy needs, it depends on your intention to plant it. As a ground cover, ivy may require several square feet, while a potted ivy plant needs a container at least 8–10 inches wide.

Pruning and Maintenance

Ivies must undergo pruning to maintain excellent health, as they will otherwise become dull and rugged. Cut back the vines with pruning shears or floral scissors when they have become excessive to retain the required size and form of the plant. Trimming likewise promotes new branch development and ensures the plant is manageable. Remove faded or damaged yellow leaves to maintain the general health of your plant.

Tip

Some ivy species can cause skin irritation. Wear gloves while handling.

Common Problems and Solutions

  • Pests: Ivies can be infected with parasitic worms, chick parasites and lice, which are rare; spider mites and aphids, which are common and worms and viruses. Simply rinse the plant leaves with water. However, to control the infection, you can use insecticide soaps.
  • Yellowing Leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause yellow leaves. Adjust your watering routine accordingly.
  • Leggy Growth: Insufficient light results in leggy ivy. Transfer the plant to a location with better illumination.


Caution

Always wear gloves and protective eyewear When using chemical treatments, such as insecticidal soaps. Ensure you're working in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.

Why Ivy is a Perfect Choice

Ivy can instantly help turn a room into a green area, provided it undergoes the proper treatment. Therefore, it is well-suited for novice plant growers and expert growers. If you’ve been asking yourself how to take care of an ivy plant, this article will guide you.

The Ivy plants must surely rank amongst the most beautiful plants in nature. With no extra work, you can have their beautiful falls indoors or outdoors, depending on where you live. So put on your gardening gloves, clear some floor space, stand back and let your ivy do its magic.