How to Grow Hedera Helix Ivy Indoors

Ivy responds well to trimming.

Hedera helix, or English ivy, is one of the easiest ivy varieties to grow indoors. You could train this vining plant to grow up a support or let it cascade over the sides of a hanging basket. Because it responds well to trimming, ivy can be maintained at almost any size. There are hundreds of ivy cultivars from which to choose, including miniatures and variegated types. Some ivies feature distinctive leaf shapes, such as ruffled, heart-shaped or “bird’s-foot.” The American Ivy Society has named “Henriette,” a variegated miniature cultivar whose creamy white leaves are splotched with dark green, the 2012 ivy of the year.

Things You'll Need

• All-purpose potting soil or soil-less potting mix
• Plant mister
• Tray with pebbles
• All-purpose fertilizer for foliage plants
• Small, sharp scissors

Instructions

1. Provide ivy with a rich all-purpose potting soil or a soil-less potting mix. Be sure the plant’s container will offer good drainage.

2. Keep ivy in a location with average indoor temperatures. Avoid drafty areas.

3. Locate ivy in medium to bright filtered light. Too much direct sunlight can burn the ivy’s leaves. Ivies can also thrive under artificial light in an office or basement.

4. Water ivy using lukewarm water until the soil is evenly moist. Don’t water again until the soil is dry to the touch at a depth of 1/2 inch. Never allow the soil to become soggy.

5. Use a plant mister to provide a weekly misting of water, especially during the dry winter months. You can also increase humidity by resting the plant’s pot on a tray filled with pebbles and very shallow water.

6. Feed ivy when it is actively growing from spring through fall. Use an all-purpose fertilizer intended for foliage plants.

7. Stimulate new growth and make the plant look fuller by pinching the vines. Use a small, sharp scissors to pinch each vine right above a leaf.

8. Repot ivy when the plant becomes top-heavy or if the plant’s roots are bound. The new pot should be only one inch larger than the old pot.

Tips & Warnings

• Variegated ivies require more light than most other types. If the plant’s variegation diminishes or disappears, it is an indication that it requires a location with more sunlight.

• The leaves of the ivy plant are poisonous and can cause skin irritation. Although ivy is toxic only in large quantities, you should keep it out of reach of pets or young children.

References

• American Ivy Society
• Clemson Cooperative Extension: Indoor Ivy