How to Care for a Swedish Ivy

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Swedish ivy is not actually Swedish, nor is it ivy. It is native to Australia, but gained popularity as a houseplant in Sweden. It takes its name because, like ivy, its stems cascade down the side of its pot. With good care, it is one of the fastest growing houseplants.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Plant in hanging baskets for best results. Although Swedish ivy can be grown in pots, it trails over the side of the pot and will attempt to curve up toward the light. To grow the plant in a pot, you must keep some table space around it and it may become unshapely.

Step2

Give Swedish ivy as much direct sunlight as possible. In lower light, these plants will produce fewer leaves, and the leaves will be pale.

Step3

Provide Swedish ivy with warm temperatures during spring, summer and fall. During the winter, opt for a cooler temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step4

During spring, summer and fall, water as much as several times per week to facilitate the plant's fast growth. Cut back to once a week in winter, when the plant grows less.

Step5

Hang Swedish ivy outside from a tree branch or on a porch for the summer. A Swedish ivy will thrive in a shady outdoor spot if you water it daily.

Step6

Occasionally pinch or cut new growth. Swedish ivy will branch if pruned back to a leaf bud. This will keep the plant full.

Tips & Warnings

Because Swedish ivy is extremely fast growing and easy to care for, use the plant to introduce your children to nature, science and plants. Have them care for the plant.