Hedera canariensis

How to Grow Ivy

For a strong plant that will grow in most environments, Ivy is worth considering. A hardy plant that can grow in almost all environments and available in a variety of leaf colours from deep green to the variegated white and green. Great for pots or indoor plantings.

Full sun to shade

Regular watering

Good drainage

Suitable for all climatic zones

How to grow ivy in a garden

Due to its invasive nature, grow in a raised garden bed to restrict the risk of escape and damage to other garden plants.

Step 1

Choose a well drained spot in the garden that attracts full sun to shade.

Step 2

Enrich the soil in the planting bed with some compost and Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser, before planting.

Step 3

Dig the planting hole twice as wide and to the same depth as the root-ball. Remove the plant from the container, gently tease the roots.

Step 4

Position in hole and backfill with soil, gently firming down.

Step 5

Form a raised or doughnut shaped ring of soil around the outer edge of the plant's root zone. This helps keep water where it's needed. Always water in well after planting to settle the soil around the roots and keep the soil moist for several weeks while the new plant establishes.

Step 6

Mulch around the base with organic mulch like bark chips, sugarcane or pea straw, keeping it away from the base of the plant.

Step 7

Feed every 6 weeks with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser.

How to grow ivy in a pot

Step 1

Choose a pot at least 300 mm wide. Position in full sun to shade and fill with quality potting mix, such as Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter.

Step 2

Remove the plant from the container, gently tease the roots.

Step 3

Position in hole and backfill with potting mix, gently firming down. Water in well.

Step 4

Feed every 6 weeks with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser.

Growing tips

Regular trimming and pruning is required to keep this plant under control and looking at its best.
Trim off any of the larger or adult leaves to keep the small compact form.
Can be used as a ground cover or small hedge like plant.
Easily grown on walls and fences. Over time this plant can cause damage to the brickwork due to its strong climbing roots.
Great for understory plantings if controlled.
Can be grown as an indoor plant.
Some species of Ivy, particularly Hedera helix can become weedy. Check with your local council to see if you can plant this species on your site.
'Variegata' is a popular form of Ivy due to its variegated green and white leaves. Great to grow in pots or as a small shrub or controlled ground cover to create some contrasting colours in the landscape.