The Variegated English Ivy will incorporate a touch of elegance and timelessness to any sunroom or garden with the simplistic beauty of the cascading and climbing vines.

This easily recognizable ivy is commonly associated with being an outdoor decorative plant, however, this climbing vine will also do remarkably well indoors so long as it is properly maintained.

The Variegated Ivy lacks higher levels of chlorophyll resulting in the muted green with yellow or white coloration, making it the perfect accompaniment to a variety of other plants.

This climbing vine can reach heights of up to 80 feet, however, from vine to leaf the maximum height is only 8 inches. As a ground plant, the vines will spread to 15 feet in width.

When Is the best time to plant the Variegated English Ivy?

It is recommended that you plant this variation of Ivy during the spring. This classic ground cover prefers temperatures that range between 45 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to avoid cold winter winds or high summer heat.

Why are the leaves of my Ivy turning brown?

The Ivy leaves will brown if they are over-exposed to direct sunlight, or overwatering. If the plant is left in direct sunlight for an extended period of time the delicate leaves will burn. However, if the roots are too wet they will no longer be able to carry water or nutrients to the vine and leaves.

How to maintain control of the climbing vines?

The vines are easily pruned by pinching or snapping the vine just above the leaf. You can also use clippers or scissors. The cuttings should be thrown away or can be used to propagate new plants.

Even if you think that you lack a green thumb, this Ivy is easier to care for than those pesky unwanted weeds in the garden. Once placed, the plant is low-maintenance. Variegated English Ivy requires bright sunlight to thrive, however it should be kept away from direct sunlight to ensure that the delicate leaves don’t burn. English Ivy is a simple, undemanding plant that requires a wet but not soggy soil. This remarkable vine requires a minimal amount of a 20-20-20 fertilizer mix. Fertilizer should be applied once a year. This simplistic beauty can thrive in either warm or cold climates, just note that a layer of mulch should be added if you will be planting it in the colder regions.

Planting

You can utilize these magnificent plants both inside and outside. They make an attractive addition to any type of trellis or fence line, because of their superb ability to climb and fill in empty spaces.

Variegated English Ivy should be spaced 12 to 18 feet apart to ensure ample coverage but to also keep it from overcrowding.

This tough broad-leafed evergreen grows best in zones 4-10. These zones cover the majority of the United States, however there are some regions that are unsuitable for the success of this sturdy plant. Upstate Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Maine, as well as parts of New York, Wyoming, and Southern Montana are considerably colder climates and not are not ideal for the success of Variegated Ivy.

Watering

Ivies prefer slightly dried out soil, so make sure to check the top layer of soil for any amount of moisture prior to watering. The soil should be kept damp but not soggy, and there should be an excellent drainage system in place to ensure the right amount of water is retained for optimal growth.

Fertilizing

Variegated English Ivy does not require fertilization, however if you choose to apply fertilizer, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year, preferably during the spring or summer months. Take note that fertilizer should not be applied during extreme weather conditions such as bitterly cold or during times of extreme heat. The soil should be moist prior to fertilizing, and the vines should still be producing leaves.

Maintenance

To keep the beautiful tendrils of cascading vines tamed, simply snip the unwanted overgrowth as needed to achieve the desired results. Hanging baskets or planters are ideal containers for showing off this majestic plant in your sunroom or on the front porch. Just as you would trim back the overgrowth of an indoor vine, it is also advised to keep your trellis or fence line vines trimmed of overgrowth as well.