Virginia Creeper

Where to Plant

• Sunlight: This vine is highly adaptable but performs best in full sun (6+ hours) to partial shade. While it grows vigorously in deep shade, you will get the most brilliant "stoplight red" fall color if it receives direct sunlight.
• Soil: It thrives in almost any soil type, including heavy clay or dry sand, provided it is well drained. If you have heavy clay that stays soggy, mix in some organic compost at planting time to improve aeration and prevent root rot.

Watering Requirements

During the first growing season, water your Virginia Creeper twice a week to help the roots dive deep into the soil. Once the plant is mature and established, it is remarkably drought tolerant and typically only needs supplemental water during extended summer dry spells. If the plant is consistently underwatered, you may notice the leaves drooping or premature leaf drop in late summer.

Pruning Tips

Virginia Creeper blooms on new wood, but since the flowers are insignificant, pruning is mainly for size control. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins so you can clearly see the vine structure. Think of it like a haircut; you can trim back over-long runners to keep the plant within its boundaries and encourage thicker, bushier growth near the base.

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 because this encourages tender new growth that can be easily damaged by the first frost. A single application of a general purpose formula once a year is usually all this vigorous grower needs to stay healthy.