Can Ivy Be Started From a Stem?

Cutting Method

Using sections of stems from the plant is the most convenient way to start a new ivy plant. Take cuttings from plants at any time of the year from softwood, semi-hardwood or hardwood stems. It's best to take cuttings when the plant is not in an active growth stage. Use sharp, clean scissors to cut at least 3-inch-long sections from selected stems, measuring from the stem tips.

Fill a small pot with a commercially available, soilless medium to start the cuttings. Remove all foliage from the lower half of the stem, leaving just a couple of leaves at the top. Dip the base of each cutting into a rooting hormone and plant immediately in the rooting medium. The use of rooting hormone is not necessary, but aids with the production of roots. Water the cuttings well. Keep the pot in a bright, warm area out of direct sun. Keep the soil moist. It may take anywhere between four to eight months for the cuttings to root.

It is easy to start the cutting in plain water. Use 6- to 8-inch-long cuttings if you are starting them in water. Fill a small pot or vase with 3 inches of water. Remove all the leaves from the lower 4 inches of the cuttings and insert in the water. Place cuttings in an area that receives indirect light, such as a north-facing window. Fill a pot with 1/3 soilless media mixed with 2/3 horticultural perlite. Once rooted, transfer the rooted cutting to the pot.

Ivies require thorough but infrequent watering. Let the soil dry between water and avoid growing it in poorly drained soils. The plant tolerates a range of light conditions, including full to partial sun to shade. Apply a high-nitrogen, soil-applied fertilizer to stimulate foliage growth and color. Repot indoor ivies when plants get heavy or the soil starts to dry very rapidly. Use a pot size that is proportionate to the size of the plant.