English ivy care: light, water, and pet safety

Hedera helix

Care table

LightMedium light to bright indirect light. Bright indirect. Cool rooms suit it.
WaterWater when the top inch dries. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
HumidityPrefers 40 to 50 percent or more
RepottingSpring to early summer, when roots circle the pot or grow out the drainage hole. Go up 1 to 2 inches in pot width.

Winter care

Likes a cool room, 50 to 60 F. Hot dry air invites spider mites.

Pet safety

Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA). ASPCA entry: English Ivy

Pet safety comes from the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants list. The list is not exhaustive, and a plant marked non-toxic can still upset a pet stomach. If a pet eats a plant and you are worried, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (a fee may apply). ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants list.

Common problems

  • Fine webbing, speckled leaves: Spider mites, worse in dry heated air. Rinse leaves and raise humidity.
  • Dry, crispy leaves: Hot, dry air.

Illinois Extension, English ivy

How to check the soil

Finger test: push a finger into the soil up to the first knuckle, about an inch. Dry and crumbly means that layer is dry. Cool or damp means wait. For deeper checks use a wooden skewer: it comes out clean when the soil is dry.

All houseplants and the Light and Water tool

Guides

Sources