Question:
How can I propagate an English ivy?Answer:
An English ivy (Hedera helix) can be propagated by stem cuttings. Using a sharp knife, cut off 4- to 5-inch-long shoots. Pinch off the leaves on the bottom portion of the cuttings. Dip the cut ends in a rooting hormone. Then root the cuttings in perlite or coarse sand. Insert the bottom 1 to 1½ inches of the cuttings in the rooting medium. Moisten the rooting medium. To reduce the loss of water from the cuttings during the rooting process, place a clear plastic bag over the cuttings and container. Cuttings can also be rooted in flats covered with clear plastic domes. Next place the cuttings in a well-lit location (but not in direct sun). Keep the rooting medium moist throughout the rooting period. The cuttings should root in 6 to 8 weeks. When the cuttings have developed good root systems, remove them from the rooting medium and pot them up.