Ivy pertains to many unique plants, but the most typical for planting in California are Persian ivy (Hedera colchina) and Boston ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata). Ivy is recognized as an evergreen plant often found trailing the floor or clinging to tanks and buildings. The plant grows aggressively given fertile ground, light and enough water. It is often necessary to prune the plant to keep it from taking over an area. Boston ivy is acceptable for U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 8. The two English ivy and Algerian ivy are considered invasive in California and should be removed completely.
General Pruning
General pruning to shape or reduce the size of a plant, increase branching or control growth can happen year-round. Ivy plants will rapidly recover new development as soon as states of water, nutrients and temperature are favorable. Keep in mind that pruning encourages growth, so regular pruning might be required to control plant development. It is safe to remove considerable amounts of plant material. As long as you leave 18 to 24 inches of stem, the stem will division and regrow.
Pruning to Boost Growth
Pruning the hints of ivy plants encourages branching and new development, which is helpful when a large area needs covering or bald spots are evident. Late winter or early spring pruning is ideal to encourage new development. It is easy to appraise the vines while they are dormant and determine where new development is needed. Branching occurs at the cut hints, and the vines grow vigorously.
Rejuvenating Old Pills
Once an ivy plant gets large and overgrown, it is likely to eliminate the old vines and rejuvenate the plant with new development. Severe pruning in the winter or early spring allows you to see and eliminate the most competitive vines and encourage new, controllable growth. Cut stems back to a manageable size and then pull out the surplus vines. Leaving at least 18 inches on each healthy vine gives them lots of room and encouragement to develop.
How to Prune
All ivy varieties are pruned the same manner. Utilizing a clean set of hand pruners or loppers to cut stems about 1/2 inch above a leaf or grass. New development help will emerge from the grass or leaf node. Long-handled loppers enable you to reach farther in the plant than you can with pruning shears. They’re also ideal for cutting vines larger than 1/2 inch. Once the vine is cut, then pull the detached vine free. Always be sure of your target before cutting the stem to prevent cutting concealed wires along with the vine.