Question
I have an English Ivy (Hedera Helix) that I bought about 6 weeks ago and has been doing well.  It is in an area of my home that receives moderate light, possibly not enough.  I have been watering it once a week and misting several times per week.  Over the last several days it has gone limp.  The leaves are still green and the soil is moist.  I am wondering if I have overwatered it.  Thank you!@

Answer
Hi Karen,

Most people overestimate the available light for their plants. I suspect you may have, as well. Hedera ivies must be kept within a couple of feet of a bright window that is uncovered throughout the daylight hours. Right on a north or east windowsill is best.

It is very easy to overwater Hederas and especially easy to overwater any plant that does not get enough light. In inadequate light, a plant's growth rate slows considerably and so does its water use. Unfortunately, Hederas are not very forgiving when it comes to improper watering.

I suspect that the fragile roots of your Hedera have slowly rotted and are no longer able to absorb water. That is why the leaves are now limp. Sometimes, leaves will go limp if the roots do not get enough water, but they spring back after watering. However, if the soil is damp, but the foliage remains limp, then root rot is the problem.

Once roots rot, they do not usually recover. If you are lucky, not all of the vines will die back and some healthy ones will remain. However, you will need to improve the light and be more careful with your watering if you want to prevent further root rot. Do NOT repot, disturb the roots or fertilize your Hedera. Improving light and watering are all you can do. Good luck.

I have written an article on Hedera Ivy care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends a request to me at [email protected].

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

If this information has been helpful, please click the Rate Volunteer bar below and enter a rating and nomination for me. I am a volunteer on this site so Ratings are the only compensation I receive for answering plant questions.

Need more information? Visit my website at:
A link to HorticulturalHelp.com

or email me at [email protected] or call me at 917-887-8601 (EST)
 
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to HorticulturalHelp.com