Free Hedera Helix 'Goldchild' Plants

The ivy was one of the first houseplants to become popular and it continues to be so. However, the plant’s indoor environment has become increasingly inhospitable over the years with the use of central heating. The warm, dry atmosphere causes the leaves to become brown, dehydrated and often to fall prematurely. Getting the balance right with watering can also be difficult and it is very easy to over-water the plant, causing root rot. It may seem that the ivy would always prefer the conditions found outside. However, by careful selection of the right location the growth produced indoors can be superior, with brighter and more lush foliage than that seen in outdoor ivies. The plant can grow as a trailing or prostrate subject as well as being trained as a climber, using a cane or stake and wire rings for support.

Plant type : Foliage plant with climbing and trailing habit
Season of interest : All year round
Size : 10-15cm (4—6in) trailing, 1 -1.5m (39 — 59in) with support
Flower : None
Leaf : Three- to five-lobed, 2.5-4cm (1 —1 Jin), yellow and green variegated
Temperature : 7-18°C (45 — 65°F)
Aspect/Light : Full light
Humidity : Moderate
Watering : Evenly moisten compost in spring and summer, allowing to dry out a little before re-watering; keep drier in autumn and winter
Feeding : Once every two to three weeks with houseplant fertilizer in spring and summer
Propagation : Plant 10cm (4in) tip cuttings in seed and cutting or potting compost at 18-20°C (65 — 68°F) in mid spring to late summer
Potting : Houseplant potting compost
Problems : Red spider mite, aphid, mealy bug, root mealy bug, fungal leaf spot, bacterial leaf spot, root rot
Availability : Commonly available throughout year
Uses indoors : Cool, light position on windowsill in kitchen, bathroom, cloakroom or well ventilated porch