Question
Hi. I bought three different varieties of Hedera ivy several months ago. Almost immediately, one of them started losing the colour at the tips if the leaves. Over a few weeks, that leaf would lose almost all green, getting to be a tan, almost translucent, papery leaf, always from the tip back toward the stem. And other leafs would start getting the same effect on their tips. The plants are kept watered, but not over-watered (I think). They get excellent sunlight, but not direct sun. Misting them or not seems to make no difference. Now one of the other three ivys is starting to show similar symptoms!
  Any thoughts about what I need to do? Changing location doesn't seem to matter. Thanks   Richard

Answer
Hi Richard,

Translucent leaf spots on a Hedera ivy are indicative of a root-related problem.

Water quality may be a problem if your water is on the hard or alkaline side. Use filtered or distilled instead.

If you repotted, then soil quality may be a problem. Flushing with clear water may help resolve that.

Finally, your watering technique may not be proper. Allow the top half-inch of soil to dry out and then water thoroughly until some water trickles through the drainage hole. Incomplete watering can create "hot spots" in the soil and around the roots.

Light, humidity, pests, and nutrient deficiency can be ruled out as causes of this symptom.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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