English ivy

(Hedera helix `Needlepoint')

Contact: Diane Relf, Extension Specialist, Environmental Horticulture

August 1996

DESCRIPTION:

Glossy, dark green, leathery leaves have 3 - 5 lobes and pointed tips. They are arranged alternately along a tough, brown, trailing stem.

FOLIAGE COLORS:

Dark Green, Green and White

CONTAINER:

Small planter (hanging basket), large planters (groundcover).

LIGHT:

Low to medium. Tolerates artificial or existing room light, near a north, east, or west window, and up to 1000 footcandles.

WATER:

Normal. Water thoroughly, let soil dry to touch to a soil depth of 1/2".

TEMPERATURE:

Cool - medium. 50 - 70 (degrees F) days, 45 - 65 nights.

HUMIDITY:

Average house. 30% or more , needs fresh air

FERTILIZER:

Every 3 - 4 months

SOIL MIX:

1 part sterilized garden loam, 1 part clean coarse sand or Perlite, and 1/2 to 1 part sphagnum peat moss.

PROPOGATION:

Stem cuttings

SELECTION GUIDE:

Select sturdy, shapely, healthy plant free from insect and disease damage. New leaf growth is desirable. Avoid those with yellow or brown leaf margins, wilted or water soaked leaves.

CARE:

Easy. Tolerates wide range of conditions. Good for beginners.

OTHER CULTIVARS:

'Glacier' (Glacier english ivy) - a compact variegated vine staying in its nonflowing juvenile stage for many years. Many cultivars listed

PROBLEMS:

Leaf/berry can be toxic: Proper plant I.D. important. House plants are not to be eaten by people or pets.
Spider mites: Wash with soapy water and spray with a miticide.
Raised areas-leaf bottom: Provide even moisture to prevent Oedema.

COMMENTS:

Usually used in hanging baskets or on a trellis.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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