Culture Notes
Growing in full sun to deep shade, English Ivy is tolerant of a wide variety of soils except those kept wet. Plants growing in full sun occasionally burn during the winter in the northern part of its hardiness range. Although somewhat drought-tolerant once established, English Ivy maintains its freshest appearance when given ample moisture. Ivy benefits from some shade, especially when grown in the warmer climates. Plant on 1-foot centers for quick establishment. English ivy has been placed on the noxious weed list in at least one state due to its ability to invade natural areas following planting - use it with caution. Plants such as Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, Cotoneaster dammeri and Hypericum can be used in its place where appropriate.
Ivy tolerates only little foot traffic or other disturbances. Be careful not to step into the bed after it is established. Raking leaves from or cleaning debris out of a bed of ivy can cause severe damage to it if you are not careful. Let leaves drop into the bed and remain in place. Some leaves can be blown out of the bed with a leaf blower. This plant is considered mostly allergy free and causes little or no allergy problems in most people. Sensitive persons may have severe dermatitis within 48 hours of contact with foliage. Plants resist browsing by deer.
Ivy will usually not strangle a tree because stems ascend straight up the trunk and do not spiral around as do some other vines. However, before allowing ivy to climb a tree, consider that the added weight of the ivy on the limbs can contribute to branch failure and breakage. The tangle of stems and foliage can also hide decay and cavities in the trunk and branches which makes it difficult to evaluate the health and safety of the tree.
The non-native English ivy has become an unimaginable forest weed in parts of the pacific northwest. It has replaced all native ground covers in some areas, e.g. Olympia National Park. Its tolerance to sea salt makes it especially adapted to the coast where it is expanding its population into native habitat.
Pests, Diseases and Damaging Agents
Pests:Â Problems include scale, spider mites, sooty mold, mealy-bugs, and aphids.
Diseases:Â Fungus leaf spot and bacterial leaf spot are a problem under moist conditions and in humid climates.Â