Hedera helix (English ivy) Propagation

Ivy – also known as Hedera – is a fast grower and surprisingly easy to propagate. In the wild, it can reach up to 30 metres. Indoors it stays smaller, but it still loves to climb. And the good news: taking cuttings is really simple.

Ready to get started? Here’s how to propagate your ivy step by step.

Rinse your scissors or knife with hot water and soap. Then disinfect with alcohol to remove bacteria and fungi. This helps keep your cutting healthy.

Cut just below a leaf node. Make sure there’s at least one or two leaves left above the cut. Remove the bottom leaves so they won’t touch the water.

It’s a good idea to take several cuttings at once – not every cutting roots successfully.

Put your cutting in a glass of water. Make sure no leaves are touching the water – trim them off if needed. Rotting leaves can stop roots from developing.

Change the water weekly and rinse the glass to prevent algae.

After 4 to 6 weeks, roots will start to appear. Wait until they’re about 5 cm long, then you can pot the cutting in soil.

Always use fresh potting soil to avoid fungus gnats, which love damp, used soil.

• When: best in spring or summer
• Light: bright spot, out of direct sun
• Water: change weekly and keep the glass clean
• Leaves: remove any that touch the water
• Tip: use multiple cuttings for a fuller result

Yes, but rooting in water is quicker and lets you see what’s happening. Once roots are strong, you can move the cutting into soil.

These tips are based on our own experience with propagating. All methods are tested in our plant nursery and work well for beginners too.

Want to explore more propagation tips? Check out our other step-by-step plant guides.