English Ivy
A classic, versatile evergreen foliage plant, our hardy cultivars are well adapted to colder Plant Hardiness Zones 5-6 than many selections. Can be used on the ground, as a cascading hardscape softener, or to climb up man-made structures as a screen.
Various formats available. We currently grow:
Hedera helix 'Baltic' (Baltic Ivy)
Hedera helix 'Thorndale' (Thorndale Ivy)
Companions for English Ivy
Baltic Ivy
Hedera helix 'Baltic'
Height 3-4 inches (8-10 cm) on ground; upwards only to snow line
Spread 2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Foliage Evergreen
Hardiness Zones 5-9
Light Full sun to full shade
Moisture Average; heavier soils produce lush growth
Soil Adaptable
A refined-looking selection with small 3-lobed pointed leaves and slower-growing habit for smaller areas than 'Thorndale'. Evergreen foliage is dense and lush on sites with average fertility and moisture. One commendable feature is the tolerance of urban areas and low light levels between buildings. Will not climb above the snow line in areas receiving -15C winter temperatures or greater. Does not spread by seed.
Recommendations for growing English Ivy
English ivy is popular for its reliability in a range of soils, but as always, will perform best on sites where soil has been aerated and drainage is good to moderate. Can grow on a range of acidic or alkaline soils but will not grow well in saturated conditions or hot, dry sandy sites. Water well after planting and during regularly in the first year. Drought tolerance is good once established. Only serious disease issue can be leaf spots; we have found increasing calcium availability through dusting of lime and gypsum to provide a natural boost in resistance. Little maintenance is required except clipping stems back into their boundaries.
Sold in 4" (10 cm) pots and Grower's flats (100s)
Thorndale Ivy
Hedera helix 'Thorndale'
Height 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) on ground
Spread 3-4 feet (90-120 cm)
Foliage Evergreen
Hardiness Zones 5-9
Light Full sun to full shade
Moisture Average; heavier soils produce lush growth
Soil Adaptable
The most popular and hardy English ivy cultivar for broad coverage. Large 5-lobed leaves resemble Boston ivy but with evergreen all-season interest. Excellent on slopes and retaining walls where it can assist in soil erosion control. One commendable feature is the tolerance of urban areas and low light levels between buildings. Will not climb above the snow line in areas receiving -15C winter temperatures or greater. Best used in managed gardens; not recommended near natural woodlots. Does not flower or set seed unless allowed to mature up a vertical axis.
Recommendations for growing English Ivy
English ivy is popular for its reliability in a range of soils, but as always, will perform best on sites where soil has been aerated and drainage is good to moderate. Can grow on a range of acidic or alkaline soils but will not grow well in saturated conditions or hot, dry sandy sites. Water well after planting and during regularly in the first year. Drought tolerance is good once established. Only serious disease issue can be leaf spots; we have found increasing calcium availability through dusting of lime and gypsum to provide a natural boost in resistance. Little maintenance is required except clipping stems back into their boundaries.
Sold in 4" (10 cm) pots, 36-cell flats and Grower's flats (100s)
1 gallon staked or unstaked also available
Companions for English Ivy
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Note: in many instances, English Ivy looks best as a single planting in formal landscapes