How to propagate ivy in water – for more trailing plants, both indoors and out
Ivies are adaptable plants that work just as well indoors as they do out. Compact varieties look good in interior schemes and are particularly effective trailing from a shelf or a mantelpiece. In backyards, more vigorous specimens are useful for quickly covering unsightly fences with their evergreen leaves. Plus, they're good for wildlife.
Not only are these plants super versatile, but they're also easy to propagate by taking cuttings. So, if you already have one ivy plant, why not have a go at making some more – for free? Just bear in mind that in some regions, this plant is considered invasive, so it's best to check before you put it in your yard.
Propagating ivy in water – in 5 easy steps
Tony O'Neill, a gardening expert, shares his step-by-step tips for propagating ivy in water. Look after the cuttings properly, avoiding the common water propagation mistakes, and roots should appear within just a few weeks.
Top tip: Before you get started, put on a pair of gardening gloves – these plants are known to irritate the skin.
Choose a healthy ivy stem with at least four leaves, and cut just below a node (where the leaf joins the stem) using clean, sharp scissors, Tony says. Then, remove the bottom two or three leaves.
'Place the cutting in a clear glass filled with water, ensuring the nodes where you removed the leaves are submerged, but keeping the top leaves above the water,' he continues.
'Position the glass in a location with indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can cause algae growth in the water.'
'Change the water every three or four days to provide fresh nutrients and prevent bacteria buildup.'
'You should soon see roots developing from the submerged nodes. Once the roots are a few inches long, your ivy is ready to be potted in soil.'
Propagating ivy in soil
According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), you can also propagate ivy by planting cuttings into a damp, well-draining potting mix. In fact, this is often more successful than propagating them in water, as the newly developed root system will be more robust.
Similar to when propagating umbrella plants, cover the pots with a clear plastic bag to increase humidity, which will help these plants establish roots. You can also use a rooting hormone powder to increase the chances of success, such as Bonide Bontone II Rooting Powder from Amazon, which has great reviews.
Avoid placing the cuttings in direct sunlight, and lightly water the soil if it dries out. The cover can be removed once new growth is visible, the RHS says.
Once established, consider planting your ivy in a hanging basket, either to brighten a corner of a room or to add interest to a porch.
Alternatively, use your new ivy plants as part of a fall patio display: plant them around the edges of mixed containers where they'll spill over the edge. Try a variegated variety alongside pansies and colorful heucheras for a pretty combination.
