This will be the 3rd summer since I have planted English ivy (hedera helix) outside to climb up a 6-foot stockade fence. So far, it has only reached about halfway up this fence, and it seems to me that it should be taller at this point.
I have never pruned or cut this ivy back, and our last two summers here in PA have been very rainy. Also, this ivy is planted in a mostly sunny/partly shady location. My plants appear to be very healthy, and I know this vine is supposed to be known for its hardiness.
So, I have two questions: 1. Am I doing something wrong here? and 2. What can you suggest to speed up the growth of my English ivy vines?
In Washington State we have a program called the "Master Gardner" program. If I've got it right, the University of Washington trains these people for free. Then once you graduate from the program & become a "Master Gardner" you volunteer a certain amount of your time helping the community & volunteering at places like Saturday Makets & Shopping Malls answering questions about plants & their diseases.
There are 2 reasons I brought up Master Gardeners.
One is you can ask questions about plants & plant problems online.
The second reason I brought up the Master Gardeners was, I asked them about growing English Ivy & they told me NOT to grow it... They said it's considered a "noxious weed" & that birds pick up the seeds & other parts for their nests & take them out into the forests where they are strangling our trees & other plant life. So, I looked at the trees along the side of the road on my way home... & low & behold, They were right... There is an abundance of this Ivy wrapped around trees everywhere. I hadn't noticed it before, because it looks so beautiful.
I'd still like to grow English Ivy... because I need a fast growing ground cover. I'm wondering if there's anything I can do to contain it, or if there's another substitute? (Or should I just go out to the woods & grab some for myself?) I noticed they sell it at Home Stores & Nurseries. If it is truly a "bad plant, that is taking over the world", then why would they sell it everywhere?
First, be sure it is planted is a shady area. Adding a couple inches of mulch will certainly help.
Second, buy Miracle Grow Acid, this isn't the regular Miracle Grow, but rather the one for acid loving plants. Mix according to directions and feed weekly.
Sometimes ivy are slow starters, but watch out, when they take off, they are aggressive.
You will have a real 'green thumb' if you follow the above directions.
I think you've been lucky. In many places it is considered a invasive weed to be gotten rid of. Once it does take hold, it will be a total nuisance. It will need to be trimmed regularly and kept from taking over your yard and the neighbors yard. A more eco friendly vine would probably be a better choice.
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