Question
Hi.
I bought a hanging pot of grape vine about a month ago.  Since I brought the plant home, it has lost about two thirds of its leaves.  The plant is in a bright room but not in direct sunlight.  I let the soil dry completely before watering.  I tried giving the plant a gentle shower to loosen the soil and guarantee sufficient watering but it did not help.
Please advise me on how to save this plant.
I have thought also of taking some cuttings to regrow a fresh plant.  What would be the best method?
Thank you for your time and assistance.

Claire.

Answer
Hi Claire,

I assume that your plant is the one more commonly called grape ivy or Cissus.

This was once a popular indoor plant, but is not seen much any more. It is quite particular about light and soil moisture and it is highly susceptible to powdery mildew.

I gather you did not repot your ivy. That is good because they rarely need repotting and repotting is very stressful for them.

They do best with lots of very bright indirect light with a couple of hours of direct sun. It should hang right in a north or east window.

It should be watered thoroughly as soon as the surface of the soil feels dry to the touch.

Prune back stems that have lost many of their older leaves. This pruning will help produce new growth close to the center of the plant.

The tip cuttings with about 4 leaves can be rooted in water. When the roots are an inch or more long, then the cuttings can be transferred to potting soil.

You didn't mention powdery mildew so I will assume that is not a problem. If it becomes one, you will have to treat it right away with a fungicide with powdery mildew listed on the label.

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

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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