English Ivy (Hedera helix) is a resilient evergreen vine often used as groundcover or a climbing accent in landscaping. Transplanting this species can be highly successful if done methodically, minimizing stress on the plant’s root system. This guide provides the necessary steps to ensure your ivy establishes itself successfully in its new location.
Preparing the Plant and New Site
The optimal time for transplanting English Ivy is during the cooler weather of late fall or early spring. This timing minimizes heat stress on the roots and allows for establishment before extreme temperatures arrive. Prior to the move, heavy pruning of the existing plant is highly recommended. Cutting back the long, trailing vines reduces the overall leaf surface area, meaning the smaller root system has less foliage to support and water.
Begin preparing the new planting site by digging a hole that is significantly wider than the ivy’s anticipated root ball, but no deeper. Since the roots of Hedera helix spread horizontally, ample space for lateral growth is important. A day or two before the planned move, thoroughly water the ivy in its original location to saturate the root zone. This pre-watering hydrates the plant and helps the soil hold together more firmly around the roots, stabilizing the root ball during excavation.
Executing the Transplant
The process of moving the ivy requires careful attention to the root ball’s integrity, as it is the primary structure for water and nutrient absorption. To determine the necessary size of the root ball, estimate a circumference that includes the majority of the existing feeder roots, typically extending outward from the main stem base. Using a sharp spade, cut cleanly and deeply around the perimeter of the chosen area. Aim for a consistent depth of about 10 to 12 inches to sever the roots cleanly.
Once the perimeter cut is made, work the spade underneath the root mass to undercut it completely. For larger sections, use a sheet of burlap or a sturdy tarp to contain the soil and roots as you lift the plant. Carefully slide the root ball onto the material; this protects the fine root hairs and simplifies transportation to the new hole. Place the root ball directly into the prepared hole, ensuring the top of the soil line is level with the surrounding grade.
Adjust the plant’s position so that it sits straight, and then begin backfilling the hole with the excavated soil. As you fill, gently tamp the soil down to eliminate any large air pockets that could cause root desiccation. Do not compact the soil heavily, as this prevents the necessary exchange of oxygen and water. Finally, ensure a slight saucer-like depression around the base of the plant to help capture water during initial irrigation.
Ensuring Survival After the Move
Immediately after the English Ivy is situated and backfilled, apply a deep, thorough watering to settle the soil and eliminate any remaining small air pockets around the roots. This initial saturation minimizes the effects of transplant shock, which occurs when the roots cannot take up enough water to meet the demands of the leaves. Following this, maintain a consistent watering schedule, especially throughout the first growing season as the plant establishes new feeder roots.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not saturated to prevent fungal issues like root rot. Newly transplanted ivy is susceptible to sun-scald; if the new location receives intense, direct afternoon sun, provide temporary shade for the first few weeks. Monitor the plant regularly for signs of stress, such as wilting or browning leaves, which indicate the roots are struggling to supply enough moisture. Addressing these signs quickly with supplemental watering can significantly increase the ivy’s chances of long-term survival.