Boston ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata) is a dense, deciduous vine that can be used to cover a wall or trellis, climb a tree, or hide problems in the yard like stumps and rocks. These sturdy vines grow to lengths of 30 feet (9 m. ) and give complete coverage to almost anything. They tolerate any light exposure, from full sun to full shade, and arent picky about the soil. Youll find dozens of uses for this versatile vine. But what about keeping Boston ivy over winter?.
Ivy is a classic choice for home gardens and landscaping with its attractive green foliage and easy spreading growth habit. But how does this popular plant fare when the temperatures drop? Can ivy survive and continue growing through harsh winters?
The answer depends on the specific ivy type as some are more cold-hardy than others In this article, we’ll examine how different ivy species and cultivars handle frigid winter conditions.
Overview of Ivy Types
There are around 15 species of true ivy (Hedera genus) like:
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English ivy (Hedera helix) – Most common type used in landscaping and indoor spaces. Has large lobed leaves and is invasive in some regions.
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Persian ivy (Hedera colchica) – Hardy type with multiple leaf shapes and variegations. Less aggressive spreader.
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Algerian ivy (Hedera algeriensis) – Tolerates heat and drought better than other types. Has leathery, rounded leaves.
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Irish ivy (Hedera hibernica) – Very similar to English ivy but with slightly larger leaves.
In addition to these true ivy species, some common houseplants like pothos, grape ivy, and Swedish ivy are also called ivies but aren’t technically Hedera.
Next, let’s analyze how well the true outdoor ivy types hold up against freezing winter temperatures and harsh weather conditions.
English Ivy
English ivy (Hedera helix) is quite winter hardy and remains evergreen through cold winters in its native range spanning Europe, Asia, and North Africa. So in most areas where it grows as an ornamental plant, it retains its foliage year-round.
However, in very cold regions with temperatures below -10°F (-23°C), English ivy may suffer freeze damage and foliage loss. But even then, the roots usually survive and send up new growth in spring.
Other things that help English ivy overcome winter are:
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Maintenance of soil moisture – Ivy planted in the ground stays green better than container plants. Regular irrigation prevents desiccation damage.
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Protection against wind – Wind exposure accelerates moisture loss from leaves, leading to winter burn. Sites blocked from strong winds help English ivy stay evergreen.
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Insulating snow cover – A protective blanket of snow shields ivy from extreme subzero air temperatures. Areas with consistent snowfall in winter support evergreen growth.
So while English ivy remains semi-evergreen to evergreen in most cool and even cold winter areas, it benefits from some protection from drying winds and roots mulching for extra insurance.
Persian Ivy
Persian ivy (Hedera colchica) is even more cold tolerant than English ivy, surviving temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C).
Its natual range stretches across an expansive region from Southern Europe to Northern Africa to Western Asia. This wide span means Persian ivy adapts well to cold winters in ornamental use.
The many different leaf forms and cultivars like ‘Dentata Variegata’ also vary somewhat in winter hardiness. But most types tolerate frosts and short freezes under USDA zones 6 to 8.
While Persian ivy remains evergreen in milder winters, sustained subzero periods may burn the foliage. But the vines bounce back from the roots once spring arrives.
Algerian Ivy
Algerian ivy (Hedera algeriensis) is another extremely hardy type that withstands zone 6 winters without leaf drop due to its native range in the cold Atlas Mountains of Algeria.
Its leathery, rounded leaves are more resistant to freeze damage than other ivies. It also requires less moisture and tolerates heat and drought stress better than English ivy.
Algerian ivy can suffer some leaf scorching in zone 5 winters but rejuvenates in spring. Its vigorous growing habit also allows quick regrowth if any stems get damaged by heavy snow or ice.
Irish Ivy
Irish ivy (Hedera hibernica) is near identical to English ivy but with slightly larger, glossier leaves. It offers the same winter hardiness and evergreen properties as English ivy.
Both Irish and English ivy thrive as evergreens in zone 8 and higher. They may experience minor foliage loss in zone 7 winters. Exposure to sustained subzero temperatures in zones 6 and below may cause them to lose leaves.
But the roots survive except in very harsh winters. Just prune away any dead vines in spring to stimulate fresh growth.
Can Ivy Grow in Winter?
Most true outdoor ivy types remain evergreen to semi-evergreen and continue growing at a reduced rate in winter:
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Evergreen – English ivy, Irish ivy, Persian ivy stay green through winter in zones 7-9. They may lose some leaves in zone 6.
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Semi-evergreen – Algerian ivy holds leaves better in zone 6 than other types. All ivys may defoliate in very cold zone 5 conditions before regrowing in spring.
Indoor ivy houseplants like Hedera helix ‘Golden Child’ also grow slowly through winter if given adequate warmth and light.
So while ivy growth diminishes in winter, the vines continue spreading at a reduced pace in ideal conditions. Ground ivy planted in sheltered, well-drained spots will fare better than container plants.
Growing Ivy in Winter
Here are some tips to help outdoor ivy prosper through cold seasons:
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Select suitable cold-tolerant varieties like Persian ivy for colder regions.
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Plant ivy in sites protected from harsh winds which aggravate winter desiccation.
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Maintain adequate soil moisture going into winter. Mulch roots to reduce water loss.
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Remove early fall growth to harden off plants and prevent freeze damage to tender new shoots.
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Prune away any dead or damaged growth in spring to rejuvenate plants.
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Avoid excessive winter pruning which leaves ivy vulnerable to cold exposure.
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Check containerized plants and move them into a cool greenhouse or unheated porch over winter.
Can I Plant Ivy in Winter?
Planting ivy in winter is risky due to the potential for freeze damage. Ivy enjoys cool weather but its roots establish better in late fall or early spring when the soil is still somewhat warm.
If planting ivy in winter, follow these precautions:
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Select only potted plants, not bare root ivy which is more vulnerable.
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Choose a protected site, sheltered from winter winds and with good drainage.
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Prepare the soil well in advance by amending with compost to improve moisture retention.
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Water the plants very well after planting and mulch heavily around the base.
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Cover newly planted ivy with protective row cover fabric to shield from frost.
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Be prepared to replace plants damaged by unusual cold snaps. Containerized plants are easier to replace.
Boston Ivy Vines in Winter
In fall, Boston ivy leaves begin a color transformation that goes from red to purple. The leaves cling to the vines longer than most deciduous plants, but eventually drop in early winter. After they fall, you can see the dark blue fruit. These berry-like fruits are called drupes, and they keep the garden alive in the winter because many birds and small mammals eat them. Boston ivy winter care is minimal and consists primarily of pruning. For first-year vines, mulch may help, but older plants are hardy and don’t need extra protection. The vine is rated for USDA plant hardiness zones 4 through 8.
Does Boston Ivy Die in Winter?
Boston ivy goes dormant in winter and may look as though it is dead. Its just waiting for changes in temperature and light cycles to signal that spring is on the way. The vine quickly returns to its former glory when the time is right. Growing vines that don’t lose their leaves in the winter, like Boston ivy, has a few benefits. When grown against a trellis or pergola, vines offer good shade from the summer heat. But when the leaves fall in the winter, the vines let the sunlight in. Bright sunlight can raise the temperature in the area as much as 10 degrees F (5. 6 C. ). The vine will help keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter if you grow it against a wall.
English Ivy Plant Care | Hedera Helix Vines | Ivy Houseplants
Can English ivy survive winter?
However, such low temperatures might affect your ivy’s health. Therefore, give the plant the necessary care if you reside in areas experiencing freezing winters. To keep your English ivy thriving and happy through the winters, you must provide the plant with the care it needs. The plant shows various signs of stress if exposed to extreme cold.
Can Ivy grow in cold weather?
They grow the best in temperatures between 70-90°F but can tolerate low temperatures in the northern regions. However, such low temperatures might affect your ivy’s health. Therefore, give the plant the necessary care if you reside in areas experiencing freezing winters.
How do I care for English ivy in the winter?
To properly care for English ivy in the winter, there are a few key steps you should follow: 1. Temperature: Ensure that the temperature remains within the preferred range of 60-75°F for your English ivy. Avoid exposing it to excessive cold or heat, as it can harm the plant. 2.
Can English ivy be pruned in the winter?
Pruning can be done throughout the year, including in the winter, if necessary. Use clean and sharp pruners to avoid damaging the plant. By following these care instructions, you can ensure that your English ivy remains healthy and vibrant throughout the winter season.