Ivy is generally considered to be very robust. However, it should not be underestimated that the climbing plant is quite vulnerable. If the leaves have brown spots, it may be due to a lack of care. Diseases and pests are also the cause of the discoloration.
What are the causes of brown spots on ivy leaves?
Brown spots on ivy leaves can be caused by drought, frost damage, fungal diseases such as focal spot and ivy fungus, or pests such as spider mites and scale insects. Regular watering, frost-free overwintering and pest control can help avoid such problems.
Causes of brown spots on the leaves
- drought
- not hardy
- Fungal diseases
- Pests
Drought is a very common problem. Ivy likes it moist rather than dry. Therefore, water the ivy regularly, but make sure that it does not become waterlogged. If the air in the room is very dry, spraying with water can be helpful.
Not all types of ivy are completely hardy. Frost damage is also noticeable through brown spots. It is therefore better to grow non-frost-hardy varieties in pots that are easier to overwinter.
Brown spots due to illnesses
If only brown spots appear on the leaves without the entire leaf changing color, it is probably the focal spot disease. It is triggered by fungal spores.
Another disease of ivy is the ivy fungus. Initially the leaves get brown spots, which turn black over time.
Prune off diseased shoots generously. Light the plants well. Dispose of plant remains in household waste. Avoid spraying the ivy with water to prevent the fungal spores from spreading. Only use clean tools for cutting. Clean knives and scissors after use.
Brown spots caused by pests
When ivy is kept as a houseplant, brown spots appear on the leaves due to a pest infestation. These can be spider mites or scale insects. If you look at the undersides of the leaves, you can usually see the pests with the naked eye.
Cut off affected plant parts. Then treat the plant with a solution of water, lye (€4.00 on Amazon) and alcohol. If the infestation is severe, use commercially available sprays.
To prevent this, make sure that the humidity is not too low. Never place ivy directly next to or above warm radiators.
Tip
Ivy prefers a shady to semi-shady location. It can only tolerate direct sunlight for a few hours. Direct midday sun in particular can cause the leaves to turn brown because they burn.
