How To Care For Variegated Swedish Ivy

Variegated Swedish ivy is a low growing, trailing plant with green leaves that are tinted white on the edges. The plant is a perennial in USDA growing zones 10-11, but is planted as an annual in cooler climates. Variegated Swedish ivy is an aggressive growing plant that spreads quickly up to 18 inches in length. The plant makes a nice accent when planted as a ground cover or in containers and window boxes.

Step 1

Find a location for variegated Swedish ivy that is partial sun or shade and provides a fertile and well-drained soil. Standard potting soil works well for container-grown plants.

Step 2

Plant variegated Swedish ivy in a hanging or upright container or a flower bed as a creeping ground cover. Mix a slow-release fertilizer into the soil prior to planting the ivy. Do not apply additional fertilizer to the plant through the growing season when using a slow-release formula.

Step 3

Dig a hole the same size as the root ball, set the plant in place, and gently pack soil in place around the roots. Water the plant immediately after planting to promote root growth.

Step 4

Water the plant frequently during the growing season to keep the soil moist at all times, but not wet.

Step 5

Apply a 20-20-20 balanced fertilizer to the plant every week if a slow-release fertilizer was not worked into the soil prior to planting.

Step 6

Prune or pinch back the plant to prevent spindly growth during the growing season. Pruning will shape the trailing porting of container-grown ivy.

Step 7

Inspect the plants periodically for mealybugs at the leaf axils. Spray infected areas of the plant with a solution of 50 percent isopropyl alcohol and 50 percent water once a week until the bugs are gone.