How to Grow an Ivy Topiary
Growing an ivy topiary is a unique way to expand your gardening skills and create a whimsical houseplant. The word topiary describes the process of training a plant to grow over a frame, resulting in a three-dimensional structure. Topiaries are sometimes used as centerpieces, or as festive holiday decorations. Materials necessary for growing a topiary can be purchased at a local garden center or drug store, and the project steps are simple, making this an easy and fun idea for adults and children. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Clay or stone pot with water drainage hole
- Potting soil
- English Ivy (or another vine-type plant)
- Topiary frame to fit within the diameter of the pot (or wire to make your own frame)
- Twist ties, cotton twine or raffia
- Decorative accents, such as ribbon or ornaments
- Fertilizer
Instructions
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Planting
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1
Scoop potting soil into the pot until it is half full.
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2
Plant the English Ivy, covering the roots with 1 to 2 inches of soil. If necessary, untangle the tendrils of the plant and spread around the pot.
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3
Insert the topiary frame. Press the wire firmly into the soil and continue adding soil until the frame stands on its own. Pack the soil around each leg of the frame. Wiggle the frame to make sure it is stable. If it is not stable, add more soil and pack firmly.
If you choose to design a handmade a topiary frame, chicken wire, a coat hanger, or craft wire are good options. Bend wire into desired shape. Many people create circle or heart shapes, but feel free to get creative. Any shape will work for a topiary. -
4
Wrap the individual tendrils of the ivy around sections of the frame. Try to cover the whole frame. Secure with twist ties, twine or raffia.
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5
Water and mist plant.
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6
Decorate with ribbons or ornaments, if desired. Make sure decorations are delicate and light so they do not throw the frame off balance, or interfere with the growth of the plant.
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7
As the topiary grows, continue to encourage the plant to circle around the frame. Trim and rearrange as necessary. When the two ends meet, pinch tips. This will spur side shoots that can fill bare spots, making your topiary full and beautiful.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Fertiilze every few weeks with an all-purpose houseplant fertilizer.
Water topiary weekly.
Insects and pests can attack topiaries, just like a regular houseplant. Check periodically for disease, and consult a garden center professional if problems occur.
