The ivy plant (Epipremnum) is an attractive, leafy climbing plant from the tropical regions of Southeast Asia. We like to keep it indoors. The shoots, which are sometimes meters long in older specimens, can be cut and used for propagation from cuttings.
How do you take cuttings from the ivy plant?
The best way to propagate the ivy is from cuttings that haveat least three leaf nodes. You can either root themin a glass of wateror plant them straight awayin potting soil. However, rooting in a glass of water shows quicker success.
How do you cut cuttings from the ivy plant?
It is best to usehead or shoot cuttingsthat haveat least three leaf nodesand are he althy to propagate the ivy plant. However, you should not select shoots with leaf spots or discolored leaves. Also,always cut several cuttingsso that you can put them together in a pot later. Ivy plants only branch a little, which is why you should always plant several plants together for a fuller overall picture. In addition, always usesharp and disinfected cutting equipment to avoid bruising and the transmission of pathogens. Garden scissors or rose scissors or a knife with a smooth cutting edge are well suited for cutting.
How can ivy cuttings be rooted?
The easiest way to root the cuttings isin a glass of water:
- only one cutting per glass
- place in a warm and bright location
- Change water every two to three days
- If necessary, add a pinch of root activator (optional)
- at least one leaf node should be in the water
Cuttings with strong aerial rootsyou can immediately putin potting soil:
- place in a warm and bright location
- approx. 20 °C is optimal
- Keep substrate evenly moist
- Provide a moist microclimate, e.g. B. through a transparent cover made of plastic or glass
Make sure to always wear gloves when cutting - ivy plants are poisonous!
How long does it take for the young ivy plants to root?
Basically, the ivy cuttings rootvery quickly, with the roots forming in a glass of water even much faster than when rooted in the ground. With this method you also have the advantage that you can recognize the developing roots and can therefore better decide when the young plants should be transplanted. By the way, it's particularly quick if you want to cut and root the cuttingsin spring - at this point in time the plant's vigor is particularly high.
When and how do I transplant the young ivy plants?
The right time to transplant or plant the young ivy plants has come whenthe first new shoots and leavesare already developing. Now you can place the young plants - always several in a pot - in normal houseplants orgreen plant soil. If you want the plants to grow tall, they need amoss stick for climbing Alternatively, they can also be cultivated hanging, for example in a hanging basket. Furthermore, hydroponics is very possible. When moving, make sure that the delicate roots are not bent or even broken!
Tip
How big can an ivy plant get?
Some species of ivy - such as Epipremnum pinnatum - can grow up to 20 meters high in their natural habitat in the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. When grown indoors, the plants don't grow quite as large, but can still reach several meters. You can also cut them back regularly and keep them small.