The ivy is a houseplant from the tropics that, despite the name, has nothing to do with the native ivy. It is only grown indoors because it does not tolerate frost. Efeututes are relatively easy to care for. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to maintenance.

The ivy is an easy-care potted plant

How do you water the ivy correctly?

Use lime-free water for watering. Rainwater is ideal, but water from the aquarium is also ideal.

Do not keep the ivy too moist. Watering is only carried out when the surface of the substrate has dried out to a depth of two centimetres. However, the root ball should never be completely dry.

Throw away excess water after half an hour at the latest. Alternatively, put water in the coaster and let it soak up the substrate. Repeat this process until the water remains in the coaster. Pour it off.

How high should the humidity be?

As a tropical plant, ivy does not like it too dry. A humidity of 50 to 65 percent is ideal. If the air is too dry, the leaf tips of the ivy turn brown and dry up.

How are ivy fertilized?

From March to October, the ivy is supplied with liquid fertilizer at two to three-week intervals. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and don't overdo it with fertilizing.

Does the ivy have to be cut?

The pruning of the ivy is possible all year round. The houseplant tolerates pruning well. The best time for pruning is early spring.

The shoots are shortened by a maximum of two-thirds with scissors.

When is repotting necessary?

As soon as the pot is completely rooted, you should transplant the ivy. Choose a pot that is about two to three centimeters larger in diameter.

Shake or rinse off the old substrate. Cut off all dead root pieces and place the plant in fresh substrate.

After repotting, the ivy does not tolerate direct sunlight very well. Set them up a little more protected from light for three weeks.

What diseases and pests can occur?

Diseases rarely occur. On the other hand, there are some pests that occur primarily in poor husbandry:

  • mealybugs
  • spider mites
  • thrips

In the event of leaf discoloration, you should always check the ivy for pests and take countermeasures immediately.

How is the ivy cared for in winter?

Efeututes are not hardy and are kept indoors all year round. In the period from October to March, the plant gets a little less water. However, it must not dry out completely. Don't fertilize in winter.

tips

If the ivy leaves turn yellow, it may be jaundice (chlorosis). It is caused by too much lime in the substrate or by calcareous irrigation water. Occasionally too much light is responsible for the yellowing.

Category:

Indoor plants