Engelman Ivy Virginia Creeper

Where to Plant

• Sunlight: This vine is incredibly versatile, thriving in everything from full sun to full shade. For the most brilliant red fall color, aim for at least six hours of direct sunlight. In deep shade, the foliage remains a lush green but will be less likely to produce that iconic autumn glow.
• Soil: It prefers well drained soil but is famous for its adaptability to heavy clay or sandy spots. If you have heavy clay, mix in some organic compost at planting time to help the roots breathe and prevent "wet feet."

Watering Requirements

During the first year, water your ivy twice a week to ensure the root system anchors deeply into the soil. Once established, this vine is remarkably drought tolerant and can handle dry spells without much fuss. If the plant is consistently underwatered, you will notice smaller leaves and a thinner "curtain" of growth, so provide a deep soaking during extreme summer heat to keep the canopy dense.

Pruning Tips

Engelman Ivy blooms on old wood, but since the flowers are inconspicuous, pruning is mostly about managing size and direction. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Think of it like a haircut; you are simply removing the "split ends" or stray vines that have wandered onto windows or gutters to keep the plant looking tidy and vigorous.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring just as the buds begin to swell. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer, as this encourages soft, tender growth that can be easily damaged by the first frost. A single spring feeding provides all the fuel the vine needs to cover a fence or wall in a single season.