How to Care for an Algerian Ivy Plant
Algerian ivy is an evergreen climbing vine hardy in USDA zones 8 through 10. Native to South and Central America, Algerian ivy requires relatively warm temperatures throughout the year to survive. The plant produces fragrant white flowers during late spring and early summer, though blossoms only occur on mature growth. Algerian ivy requires only basic care to thrive and flower.
Plant Algerian ivy in a location that receives four to six hours of direct sunlight each day. Spread 1 inch of organic compost over the planting site, and use a garden hoe to incorporate it into the soil to increase soil aeration, drainage and fertility. Space Algerian ivy 12 inches apart.
- Algerian ivy is an evergreen climbing vine hardy in USDA zones 8 through 10.
- Native to South and Central America, Algerian ivy requires relatively warm temperatures throughout the year to survive.
Water Algerian ivy once each day during the first week of growth. Reduce frequency thereafter to once per week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between applications. Apply water directly to the soil surrounding the plant to avoid splashing water on the foliage.
Feed your Algerian ivy plant twice per year, once in early spring and again in mid-fall. Apply a high-nitrogen 16-4-8 NPK fertilizer to encourage a burst of growth. Read the manufacturer's directions for proper application and dosage.
Prune Algerian ivy immediately after blooming is complete. Use pruning shears to cut back excessively long vines to the desired length, which will prevent the plant from growing rampant. Wear gloves when pruning to avoid skin irritation from the poisonous sap.
- Water Algerian ivy once each day during the first week of growth.
Train Algerian ivy to grow up nearby objects to improve aesthetic appeal and prevent the plant from spreading across the lawn. Place the vines of the plant over the desired support object and loosely secure them in place with twine. Keep in place for one to two weeks, or until the vines have a secure hold on the object. Remove the twine after training is completed.
Tip
Multiple plantings of Algerian ivy can be used as ground cover.
Grow Algerian ivy indoors as a houseplant in USDA zones 1 through 7.
Warning
Algerian ivy has poisonous sap that can cause significant irritation. Always wear protective gear when handling and pruning the plant to prevent potential problems.
Related Articles
References
- Clemson University Home & Garden Information Center: Ivy
- “California Gardener's Guide;” Bruce Asakawa, Sharon Asakawa; 2001
Tips
- Multiple plantings of Algerian ivy can be used as ground cover.
- Grow Algerian ivy indoors as a houseplant in USDA zones 1 through 7.
Warnings
- Algerian ivy has poisonous sap that can cause significant irritation. Always wear protective gear when handling and pruning the plant to prevent potential problems.
Writer Bio
Willow Sidhe is a freelance writer living in the beautiful Hot Springs, AR. She is a certified aromatherapist with a background in herbalism. She has extensive experience gardening, with a specialty in indoor plants and herbs. Sidhe's work has been published on numerous Web sites, including Gardenguides.com.
