As a climbing plant, ivy climbs up anything that offers it support. This is ensured by the adhesive roots that form on the young shoots. However, sometimes it seems as if the planted ivy is growing without roots and therefore needs to be tied up by hand. The adhesive roots only form after some time.
Why doesn't my ivy have roots?
Ivy only forms adhesive roots if the shoots lie directly on the ground or on a climbing aid. Light-colored or smooth surfaces as well as wire mesh fences can prevent the formation of adhesive roots. Support the ivy in the first few years by attaching it to a suitable climbing aid.
Ivy grows slowly at first
In the first two or sometimes five years, ivy grows very slowly. The tendrils only seem to get a little longer and they don't have any roots with which they can climb up the trellis.
This is completely normal, because ivy simply needs some time to settle in the location. But then it catches up and grows so fast that you can watch it.
Why does ivy grow without roots?
The adhesive roots only form where the shoot rests directly on the ground or a climbing aid such as a wall or wall. If the shoot has no adhesion to the substrate, there will be no roots.
This can occur, for example, on chain-link fences because the mesh is too large and does not offer the ivy shoot any incentive to form adhesive roots.
Even on light walls and walls, ivy initially remains without roots. A light background reflects the light too strongly and the shoots lean away from the wall. Due to the lack of support, no adhesive roots form.
Trails need a climbing aid
If you have recently planted ivy, it doesn't just need a climbing aid. In the first few years you have to support it with climbing until sufficient roots have formed.
Tie it down on very smooth walls. You can use simple, long bamboo poles or wooden slats as a base. When creating an ivy fence on wire mesh, initially thread the tendrils through the mesh. Later, the shoots find enough support in the woody branches and then form adhesive roots.
Tip
There is a type of ivy whose roots are not quite as strong. Hedera hibernica, Irish ivy, is therefore particularly suitable for adding greenery to walls. This variety is easier to remove from house walls later.
