When it comes to planting ivy for ground cover, it is important to give the plants enough space to grow and spread. The recommended distance for spacing ivy plants is between 18 to 24 inches (46-61 cm.) apart. This allows each plant to have enough room to develop and prevents overcrowding. However, if you are looking for quicker coverage, you can space the plants closer together at 1 foot (31 cm.) apart.
Spacing the ivy plants at a wider distance of 18 to 24 inches apart will result in a more spread-out and natural look. The plants will have ample space to extend their branches and create a lush carpet of green foliage. This spacing is ideal if you want the ivy to grow and fill in the area over time, providing a beautiful and low-maintenance ground cover.
On the other hand, if you are looking for faster coverage and want the ivy to fill in the space more quickly, spacing the plants closer together at 1 foot apart can be beneficial. The ivy plants will grow and intertwine with each other at a faster rate, resulting in a denser and more immediate coverage of the ground. This can be particularly useful if you have an area that needs to be covered quickly or if you want to create a more uniform look from the start.
It’s important to consider the specific variety of ivy you are planting, as some varieties may have different growth habits and require more or less space. Additionally, the growing conditions and climate in your area can also affect how quickly the ivy spreads and fills in the space. It’s always a good idea to consult with a local gardening expert or nursery to get specific advice for your region.
In my personal experience, I have planted ivy for ground cover in both wider and closer spacing. In one instance, I spaced the plants at 18 inches apart and allowed them to slowly spread and fill in the area over a couple of years. The result was a beautiful and natural-looking ground cover that required little maintenance once established. In another instance, I planted the ivy closer together at 1 foot apart to quickly cover a bare patch in my garden. The ivy grew rapidly and provided the desired coverage within a few months.
To summarize, the recommended spacing for planting ivy for ground cover is between 18 to 24 inches apart. This allows for natural growth and development of the plants. However, if you prefer quicker coverage, you can space the plants closer together at 1 foot apart. Consider the specific variety of ivy and your local growing conditions when determining the spacing for your ivy ground cover project.
