Ivy - All about symbolism & care

Ivy

Find out more about the climbing plant here. It is used as a privacy screen in many gardens. Find out more about the characteristics and where ivy grows.

Characteristics of ivy

Ivy is characterised by its dark green, glossy leaves and its ability to climb structures. The leaves are arranged alternately and can be ovate or heart-shaped. The shoots are flexible and strong, with adhesive roots that allow the plant to cling to walls and other surfaces.

Colourful ivy

Occasions for sending ivy

Ivy is versatile and is ideal for a variety of occasions. Whether as a green accent in a bouquet, as a decorative element for weddings or as a gift for friends and family, ivy always brings a natural beauty and freshness to any setting. Ivy is particularly popular as a symbol of friendship and good humour, making it perfect for birthdays, anniversaries and other festive occasions.

Ivy varieties

Hedera helix

Hedera helix, also known as common ivy, is the most widespread species of the Hedera genus. This variety is characterised by its long, climbing shoots and characteristic dark green leaves. Hedera helix is an excellent decorative plant and is popular both in gardens and indoors. The plant is easy to care for and robust, making it an ideal choice for beginners and experienced gardeners alike.

Hedera hibernica

Hedera hibernica, also known as Irish ivy, is a variety of the Hedera genus that is valued for its greater robustness and thicker leaves. This variety is particularly hardy and can withstand cold temperatures well, making it an excellent choice for Central European gardens.

Hedera colchica

Hedera colchica, also known as cross ivy, is another popular species of the Hedera genus. This variety is known for its sturdy shoots and large, heart-shaped leaves, which make an attractive addition to any garden. Hedera colchica is an extremely adaptable plant that thrives in a variety of soil and light conditions.

Propagating ivy

Ivy is easy to propagate, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to expand their plant population. You can propagate ivy by cuttings or seeds. Cuttings are the most effective method: cut off a healthy shoot with at least two leaves, remove the lower leaves and plant the cutting in moist soil or a growing medium. Keep the cuttings warm and moist until they form roots.

Planting ivy

Planting ivy is straightforward and only requires a few basic steps. Choose a suitable location that is either shady or semi-shady, as ivy thrives in both sun and shade. Make sure that the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Plant the ivy plants at a sufficient depth so that the adhesive roots are well anchored in the soil. Regular fertilisation with a balanced fertiliser promotes healthy growth and lush foliage.

Care tips

Regular care and attention are important to keep your ivy healthy and vigorous. Here are some helpful care tips:

• Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the plant moist.
• Avoid waterlogging by making sure the soil is well-drained and excess water can drain away.
• Prune the shoots regularly to keep the plant in shape and encourage the growth of new shoots.
• Fertilise your ivy in spring and summer with a balanced fertiliser to ensure an optimum supply of nutrients.

Diseases and pests

Ivy can be attacked by various diseases and pests that can affect the growth and health of the plant. Common problems include aphids, spider mites and fungal diseases such as mildew. Make sure to check the leaves regularly for signs of infestation and use suitable biological or chemical agents if necessary. Good air circulation and avoiding waterlogging can also help to prevent diseases and keep your ivy plants healthy.

Ground cover

Ivy as ground cover

Ivy is an excellent ground cover that quickly covers large areas and suppresses weed growth. Its dense, evergreen leaves give the garden a neat appearance. Ivy is particularly suitable for shady areas where other ground covers may struggle. With regular pruning and shaping, you can ensure that your ivy ground cover remains neat and attractive.

Common ivy

The common ivy species, Hedera helix, is one of the most widespread and robust varieties. It makes an excellent decorative plant and is known for its adaptability to different soil and light conditions. The common ivy is easy to care for and can be successfully cultivated both in gardens and indoors.

Botanical details

Genus Hedera

The genus Hedera belongs to the Araliaceae family and includes several species of ivy. The best-known species include Hedera helix (common ivy), Hedera hibernica (Irish ivy) and Hedera colchica (cross ivy). Each species has its own specific characteristics, but all share the characteristic adhesive roots that allow them to cling to walls and other structures.

Araliaceae family

Ivy belongs to the Araliaceae family, a diverse plant family that also includes plants such as ivy and ferns. This family is known for its attractive inflorescences and ability to thrive in a variety of habitats. The genus Hedera is one of the best known within this family and is prized in gardens and interiors worldwide.

Botanist Jan Frederik Gronovius

Jan Frederik Gronovius was an important botanist who contributed significantly to the classification and naming of the genus Hedera. His work laid the foundations for the modern botanical nomenclature of these fascinating climbing plants and helped to understand their diversity and adaptability.

Carl von Linné

Carl von Linné, the famous Swedish botanist, included the genus Hedera in his botanical nomenclature and thus made a significant contribution to the scientific classification and distribution of this plant. His work made it possible to clearly define the different species of ivy and document their characteristics.

Germini

Germini are small seeds or seedlings that can be used to propagate ivy. This method requires careful handling and optimal conditions to successfully grow new plants. Using germini is an effective way to increase your ivy stocks quickly and easily.

Ivy in bouquet

Cut flower

Ivy is a popular addition to bouquets as it is an evergreen plant that adds colour and texture. Its sturdy stems and dense leaves ensure that the other flowers in the bouquet stand out well and stay fresh for longer. Whether in a traditional bouquet or a modern arrangement, ivy adds a natural elegance to any floral creation.

Bouquet

A bouquet with ivy is not only beautiful, but also versatile. Ivy can be used as a base for different types of flowers or as a contrast to colourful flowers. Combining ivy with other popular cut flowers such as aster or lisianthus creates a harmonious and appealing bouquet that is suitable for any occasion.

Vase

To maximise the beauty of your ivy bouquet, it is important to choose the right vase. Choose a vase that holds the shoots well and provides enough water to keep the flowers fresh for longer. Make sure to check the water level in the vase regularly and cut the stems at an angle with a clean knife to improve water absorption. With the right conditions, you can ensure that your ivy blooms for a long time in the vase and unfolds its full splendour.

Ivy as a houseplant

Overwintering

Ivy is an excellent houseplant as it can thrive all year round under the right conditions. Make sure the plant is placed in a bright location out of direct sunlight and transplanted into a larger pot to provide enough space for root growth. During the winter months, you should reduce watering and keep the temperature at around 18 degrees Celsius to protect the plant from the cold. This will keep your ivy healthy and ready for another growing season in spring.

Care tips

Caring for your ivy as a houseplant is easy if you follow a few basic steps. Choose a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight to prevent burns on the leaves. Make sure the plant is not standing in water to avoid root rot and water regularly but sparingly. Regular fertilisation with a balanced fertiliser promotes healthy growth and lush foliage. Remove wilted leaves and prune the shoots regularly to maintain the shape of the plant and promote the growth of new shoots.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. how can I buy ivy online?

You can easily buy ivy from our online shop. Choose your favourite variety from our large selection of ivy varieties and order from the comfort of your own home. We will deliver your ivy directly to your home or to the address of your choice.

2 How do I care for my ivy so that it lasts longer?

To make your ivy last longer, make sure you water and fertilise it regularly. Make sure that the stems are cut at an angle and that there is no water in the vase to prevent waterlogging. A bright location and avoiding waterlogging are also important to keep your ivy healthy for longer.

3. which ivy varieties are particularly robust?

There is a large selection of robust ivy varieties, including Hedera helix and Hedera hibernica. These species are particularly resistant to diseases and pests and are ideal for various applications.

4 How do I propagate ivy successfully?

The best way to propagate ivy is by cuttings. Cut off healthy shoots, remove the lower leaves and plant the cuttings in moist soil or a growing medium. Keep the cuttings warm and moist until they form roots to grow new ivy plants.

5. can I overwinter my ivy?

Yes, you can overwinter your ivy by treating it as a houseplant. Place the plant in a bright, cool room and reduce the amount of water to maintain the plant during the cold months. This way you can get your ivy growing and climbing again in spring.

6 What diseases and pests affect ivy?

Ivy can be affected by various diseases and pests, including aphids, spider mites and fungal diseases such as mildew. Make sure to check the leaves regularly for signs of infestation and use suitable biological or chemical agents if necessary. Good air circulation and avoiding waterlogging can also help prevent disease and keep your ivy plants healthy.

7 How do I place my ivy in the vase?

To keep your ivy in the vase for a long time, you should cut the stems at an angle and check the water level regularly. Place the ivy in a bright spot, but not in direct sunlight, to keep the leaves fresh and vibrant.

8 What does the colour of ivy mean?

Ivy is available in different colours, with most varieties being dark green. However, there are also varieties with yellow or white leaves. The colour of ivy can vary depending on the variety and cultivation, and different colours can carry different meanings, such as growth, durability and friendship.

9. can I keep ivy as a houseplant?

Yes, ivy makes an excellent houseplant. It brings colour and life to any room and is relatively easy to care for. Make sure to place it in a bright location and fertilise it regularly to support its growth.

10. how can I protect my ivy from waterlogging?

Avoid waterlogging by ensuring that the ivy has well-drained soil and that excess water can drain away from the vase. This prevents root rot and other water-related diseases. Make sure that the plant is not standing in water and that the roots can breathe freely.

11 What is the significance of different ivy colours?

Ivy colours have different meanings. Dark green ivies symbolise constancy and loyalty, while yellow and white varieties stand for friendship and purity. Choose the colour that best suits your occasion and conveys the desired message.

12. how long do ivies last in a vase?

With the right care, ivy in a vase can stay fresh for up to two to three days. Make sure to check the water level regularly, cut the stems at an angle and keep the vase clean to prolong the life of your ivy.