English Ivy is one of the easiest plants to propagate, making them perfect for beginners who want to expand their plant collection or share with friends. Each has its own preferred propagation method, but all are rewarding and easy to work with.
How to Propagate English Ivy
English ivy is one of the simplest plants to propagate because all you need are stem cuttings. Start by selecting healthy stems that are 4-6 inches long with several leaves. Look for stems that have small aerial roots or nodes along their length, as these will develop into full roots quickly.
Cut just below a node using clean, sharp scissors. Remove the lower leaves, leaving 2-3 sets of leaves at the top. You can propagate ivy in either water or soil, though water propagation lets you see the entire process of the roots developing.
Propagating English Ivy in Water
For water propagation, place your stem cuttings in a clear glass jar filled with room-temperature water. Make sure no leaves touch the water, as they’ll rot and contaminate your cuttings.
Change the water every 3-4 days to keep it fresh and oxygenated. You’ll see roots developing within 1-2 weeks, and once they reach about an inch long, you can transplant them into potting soil.
Propagating English Ivy in Soil
Soil propagation works just as well (if not better than) water propagation. Because you’re growing them directly in the soil, it removes any risks of transplant shock. If you have rooting hormone, you can dip your cutting in before planting, although ivy roots so easily that it’s not necessary.
Plant the cutting in moist potting mix and make sure to bury the nodes while keeping the leaves above soil level. Keep the soil consistently moist (not soggy) and place the pot in bright, indirect light. New growth typically appears within 2-3 weeks.
