Gardening Tips: How to Grow English Ivy

English Ivy, or Hedera helix, is a very common houseplant. The plant is easy to grow and available in a variety of variegated forms. This article will give you a few tips on growing this type of plant in your home.

Water

When growing an English Ivy, it is best that you keep the soil moist throughout the growing season. You can safely provide less water during the winter months. It's also important that you provide the plant with enough humidity.

One option is to mist the plant on a daily basis. You can also put the pot atop a tray of wet pebbles.

Light

Your English Ivy needs a lot of bright sunlight or fluorescent light. These plants are available in many different variegated forms. If you don't provide variegated plants with enough light, their leaves will turn solid green. Direct sunlight will help the leaves have a stronger color.

Temperature

When growing an English Ivy indoors, it is best that you maintain a room temperature between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. You will also need to ensure that you don't locate the plant where it's exposed to drafts. This means that you shouldn't put it near open windows, doors, or an air conditioning unit.

Soil

Soil that provides good drainage is best for your English Ivy. You will also need to keep the soil evenly moist. During the growing season, you can use a high-nitrogen liquid fertilizer on a monthly basis.

Maintenance

You should be aware that the leaves of an English Ivy can irritate your skin. Therefore, it's a good idea to wear a pair of gloves whenever you have to handle the plant. You should also keep an eye out for spider mites since they're a common problem when growing an English Ivy. Misting the plant on a regular basis will help keep them at bay.

These are a few tips for growing an English Ivy. Make sure that you keep the soil evenly moist and provide plenty of humidity. Also, don't place the plant in a location where it will be exposed to drafts or frequent temperature changes.