Want to add some green to your home?
Growing ivy is a great way to do it. It’s easy and looks fantastic.
Check out these 8 simple tactics to get ivy thriving on your house.
Ready to green up your space?
Let’s go!
Pick the Right Ivy
First things first, you gotta choose the right type of ivy. English Ivy, Boston Ivy, and Climbing Fig are popular choices.
Make sure to pick one that suits your climate. Not all ivies are made equal, some thrive in cold, while others love the heat.
So, research a bit.
Prepare the Wall
Give your wall a once-over. Check for cracks or loose bricks because ivy will find its way into any crevice.
Clean the wall to remove dirt and algae. You want a good foundation for your ivy to grow on.
No one likes a crumbling home.
Planting Ivy
Dig some small holes near the base of your wall, ideally about 6-12 inches apart. Place ivy plants in these holes and cover with soil.
Water them generously. If you’re using seeds, sprinkle them close to the wall and cover them lightly with soil.
Watering and Feeding
Especially in the beginning, your ivy will need regular watering. Make sure the soil is consistently moist but not soggy.
Once it’s established, you can dial back the watering. Throw in some balanced fertilizer every now and then for good measure.
Guide the Growth
When your ivy starts to grow, it may need a little help finding the best path. Use some garden twine to gently guide its direction.
This helps it cling to the wall rather than spreading all over your yard.
Regular Trimming
Keep a pair of garden shears handy. Regular trimming will make sure the ivy doesn’t overrun your house.
It also keeps the plant healthy. Cut back any wayward vines to keep it looking tidy.
Watch for Pests
Ivy can attract some unwanted guests like aphids and spider mites. Keep an eye out for these pests.
If you spot them, a spray of insecticidal soap should do the trick. Better to nip it in the bud early on.
Be Patient
This isn’t an overnight project. Ivy can take a few years to fully establish and cover your wall.
But once it does, you’ll have a gorgeous, green facade that’s worth the wait.