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Dreaming of a lush ivy-covered wall?
You’ve got the right idea!
Growing ivy on brick is easier than you think. Here are 7 tactics to make it happen. Transform your wall into a green paradise.
Let’s get started!
Choose the Right Type of Ivy
First things first, not all ivy is created equal. If you want beautiful ivy covering your brick wall, you gotta pick the right one!
English ivy and Boston ivy are popular choices because they grow quickly and stick to surfaces easily. English ivy stays evergreen, while Boston ivy turns a lovely red in the fall.
Do a little homework to see which one suits your taste and climate best.
Prepare the Wall
A clean wall is a happy wall! Before you plant anything, make sure your brick wall is clean and free from loose or cracked mortar.
Give it a good scrub with a brush and some soapy water, if needed. This way, the ivy can stick better and grow healthily.
Plus, a little prepping now saves you from big headaches later on!
Plant Ivy at the Base
Time to get your hands dirty! Dig small holes at the base of the wall about 12 inches apart.
Place your ivy plants in the holes and cover the roots with soil. Water them well to help them settle in.
This will give your new ivy a strong start and get it ready to climb up that brick wall in no time.
Guide the Growth
In the early stages, your ivy might need a bit of guidance to find its way up the wall. Use some garden ties or string to gently secure the vines to the wall.
Be careful not to tie them too tightly. Once the ivy gets the hang of it, it’ll cling on its own and start spreading beautifully.
Trust the process!
Water and Feed
Like any living thing, ivy needs food and water to thrive. Water your ivy regularly, especially during dry spells.
A good soak once a week should do the trick. Feeding them with some balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer will keep them healthy and growing.
Happy ivy means a happier brick wall!
Prune for Health and Shape
Pruning is your best friend when growing ivy. Regularly trim any dead or overgrown sections.
This keeps the plant healthy and encourages new growth. It also helps maintain the shape you want.
A little snip here and there goes a long way in keeping your wall looking its best.
Watch Out for Pests
Keep an eye on your ivy for any signs of pests or diseases. Spider mites and aphids can be a nuisance, but a good spray with insecticidal soap should handle them.
Also, make sure air can flow freely around the vines to prevent mold and mildew. Healthy vines equal a perfect ivy-covered wall!