Algerian ivy (Hedera algeriensis) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

Average water needs, watering when the top 3 cm of soil has dried out.

Fertilization

Fertilization once every 2-3 months during the growing season.

Pruning

Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

Soil

Chalky, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Carrots, ivies and allies

Needs excellent drainage in pots

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Algerian ivy

Sunlight

Full sun

Hardiness Zones

6 to 11

Planting Time

Spring, Fall

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Questions About Algerian ivy

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What's the best method to water my Algerian ivy?

You might want to put a garden hose at the plant base to ensure that you're promoting excellent root development. Avoid directly spraying the leaves, and know that the leaves will require more watering if they are outdoors and facing direct sunlight. You can also use bubblers that you can put on to each plant to moisten the roots. Also, use soaker hoses that can cover the entire garden or bed when adding or removing plants to push the roots deeply. Drain any excess water and wait for the soil to dry before watering. Water at ground level to prevent diseases. On a sunny day, you might want to spray the entire bush with water. Whether potted or in-ground, please remember Algerian ivy prefers deep watering over light sprinkling.

What should I do if I water Algerian ivy too much/too little?

An overwatered Algerian ivy can start to have leaves that turn yellow, drop off and wilt. The plant can also look dull and unhealthy, with signs of mushy stems. When they are beginning to show these signs, it's best to adjust your schedule whenever possible.

The wilting can also be a sign of under watering as well. You might see that the leaves begin to turn crispy and dry while the overwatered ones will have soft wilted leaves. Check the soil when it is dry and watering is not enough, give it a full watering in time. Enough water will make the Algerian ivy recover again, but the plant will still appear dry and yellow leaves after a few days due to the damaged root system. Once it return to normal, the leave yellowing will stop .

Always check the moisture levels at the pot when you have the Algerian ivy indoors. Avoid overwatering indoors and see if there are signs of black spots. If these are present, let the soil dry in the pot by giving it a few days of rest from watering.

Overwatering can lead to root rot being present in your plant. If this is the case, you might want to transfer them into a different pot, especially if you see discolored and slimy roots. Always prevent root rot as much as possible, and don't let the soil become too soggy.

You should dig a little deeper when you plant your Algerian ivy outdoors. When you check with your fingers and notice that the soil is too dry, it could mean underwatering. Adequate watering is required to help the plant recover.

How often should I water my Algerian ivy?

The Algerian ivy likes deep and infrequent watering. You would want to soak them in a gallon of water each time, especially when they are planted in pots. The water storage of flower pots is limited and the soil will dry out faster. Watering is required every 3 to 5 days when living in a cold region. Water it early in the morning when the soil is dry, outdoors or indoors. You can also determine if watering is needed by checking the soil inside. When the top 2-3 inches of soil is dry, it is time to give the plant a full watering. During hot days, you may need to check the moisture daily, as the heat can quickly dry out the soil in the pot.

Irrigation of the soil is also required if you have a garden. When you live in a hot climate, you might want to water once a week. Only water when you notice that about 2 to 3 inches of soil become too dry outdoors or indoors. Consider the amount of rainwater on the plant and ensure not to add to it to prevent root rot.You may not need additional watering of the plants if there is a lot of rainfall.Algerian ivy generally grows during spring and fall. When they are outdoors, you need to add mulch about 3 to 4 inches deep to conserve more water.

You need to water the plants more frequently in sandy soil because this type tends to drain faster. However, with the clay one, you need to water this less frequently where you could go for 2-3 days to dry the plant and not develop any root rot. You could mark the date on the calendar whenever you water and when you notice that the leaves are starting to droop. This can mean that you might be a day late.

How much water do I need to give my Algerian ivy?

The Algerian ivy generally needs about a gallon of water each schedule,With the potted plants, you might want to water them deeply until you see that the water is dripping at the bottom of the pot. Then, wait for the soil to dry before watering them again. You can use a water calculator or a moisture meter to determine the amount you've given to your plant in a week. Provide plenty of water, especially in the flowering period, but let the moisture evaporate afterwards to prevent root rot.

If Algerian ivy is planted outdoor with adequate rainfall, it may not need additional watering. When Algerian ivy is young or newly planted, make sure it gets 1-2 inches of rain per week. As Algerian ivy continues to grow, it can survive entirely on rainfall. Only when the weather is too hot, or when there is no rainfall at all for 2-3 weeks, then consider giving Algerian ivy a full watering during the cooler moment of the day to prevent the plant from suffering from high heat damage. Additional watering will be required during persistent dry spells.

Should I adjust the watering frequency for my Algerian ivy according to different seasons or climates?

The Algerian ivy needs outdoors come from rain, with only persistent dry weather requiring watering. Throughout the spring and fall growing seasons, the soil needs to be kept moist but not soggy, and alternating dry and moist soil conditions will allow the Algerian ivy to grow well. Throughout the summer, hot weather can cause water to evaporate too quickly, and if there is a lack of rainfall, you will need to water more frequently and extra to keep it moist.

Usually, the Algerian ivy will need less water during the winter. Since the Algerian ivy will drop their leaves and go dormant, you can put them into a well-draining but moisture-retentive soil mixture like the terracotta to help the water evaporate quicker. Once your Algerian ivy growing outdoors begins to leaf out and go dormant, you can skip watering altogether and in most cases Algerian ivy can rely on the fall and winter rains to survive the entire dormant period.

After the spring, you can cultivate your Algerian ivy and encourage it to grow and bloom when the temperature becomes warmer.This plant is not generally a fan of ponding or drought when flowering. You must ensure that the drainage is good at all times, especially during the winter.

When the plant is in a pot, the plant has limited root growth. Keep them well-watered, especially if they are planted in pots during summer. They don't like cold and wet roots, so provide adequate drainage, especially if they are still growing.

It's always best to water your Algerian ivy’s diligently. Get the entire root system into a deep soak at least once or twice a week, depending on the weather. It's best to avoid shallow sprinkles that reach the leaves since they generally encourage the growth of fungi and don't reach deep into the roots. Don't allow the Algerian ivy’s to dry out completely in the fall or winter, even if they are already dormancy.

Don't drown the plants because they generally don't like sitting in water for too long. They can die during winter if the soil does not drain well. Also, apply mulch whenever possible to reduce stress, conserve water, and encourage healthy blooms.

What should I be careful with when I water my Algerian ivy in different seasons, climates, or during different growing periods?

If planting in the ground, Algerian ivy mostly relies on rain. However, if there is no rainfall for 2-3 weeks, you may need to give proper consideration to giving the plants a deep watering. If watering Algerian ivy in summer, you should try to do it in the morning. A large temperature difference between the water temperature and the root system can stress the roots. You need to avoid watering the bushes when it's too hot outside. Start mulching them during the spring when the ground is not too cold.

The age of the plants matter. Lack of water is one of the most common reasons the newly planted ones fail to grow. After they are established, you need to ease off the watering schedule.

Reduce watering them during the fall and winter, especially if they have a water-retaining material in the soil. The dry winds in winter can dry them out, and the newly planted ones can be at risk of drought during windy winter, summer, and fall. Windy seasons mean that there's more watering required. The ones planted in the pot tend to dry out faster, so they need more watering. Once you see that they bloom less, the leaves begin to dry up.

Potted plants are relatively complex to water and fluctuate in frequency. Always be careful that the pot-planted plant don't sit in the water. Avoid putting them in containers with saucers, bowls, and trays. Too much watering in the fall can make the foliage look mottled or yellowish. It's always a good idea to prevent overwatering them regardless of the current climate or season that you might have. During the months when Algerian ivy begins to flower, you might want to increase the watering frequency but give it a rest once they are fully grown.

Give them an adequate amount of water once every 3 to 5 days but don't give them regular schedules. Make sure the soil is dry by sticking your finger in the pot, or use a moisture meter if you're unsure if it's the right time. Too much root rot can cause them to die, so be careful not to overwater or underwater regardless of the climate or season you have in your area.

Why is watering my Algerian ivy important?

Watering the Algerian ivy helps transport the needed nutrients from the soil to the rest of the plant. The moisture will keep this species healthy if you know how much water to give. The watering requirements will depend on the weather in your area and the plant's soil.

The Algerian ivy thrives on moist soil, but they can't generally tolerate waterlogging. Ensure to provide enough mulch when planted on the ground and never fall into the trap of watering too little. They enjoy a full can of watering where the water should be moist at the base when they are planted in a pot to get the best blooms.

If they are grown as foliage, you need to water them up to a depth of 10 to 20 inches so they will continue to grow. If it's raining, refrain from watering and let them get the nutrients they need from the rainwater.

How can I prune my Algerian ivy?

Pruning your Algerian ivy is a fairly simple process. First, you will need a reliable set of hand pruners or hedge trimmers. You may use a clean pair of sharp scissors if you don’t have pruners or garden shears on hand. It’s important to always clean your gardening tools before and after using them to prevent the possibility of spreading disease or infection to other plants. To prune your Algerian ivy simply allow your plant to go dormant over the Winter. Some time between late winter and early spring – or when new growth starts to appear – take your clean pruners or trimmers and cut away any dying, damaged, yellow or declining foliage. Repeat this process until you reach the base of the plant or until there are no dead pieces left to cut. When pruning, be careful not to damage the new growth that may be emerging near the base of your plant. These parts cannot be restored and pruning can increase the ventilation of the plants and facilitate their growth. Any pruning that is done to this plant should be cut straight across the blades or stems. No angled cuts are required. Diseased leaf blade foliage can be removed as it appears. This could be done anytime when your Algerian ivy is growing.

What should I do after pruning my Algerian ivy?

Once you’ve pruned your plant, you should dispose of the stems and leaves either by composting the healthy ones or throwing out the diseased parts. You can also fertilize just before or after pruning, which gives Algerian ivy a little vitamin boost that can provide it the nutrients needed to better protect itself from any nearby pathogens or diseases. Do not water the Algerian ivy immediately after pruning as this can lead to fungal infestation of the plants through the wounds. You don’t need much after care when you’re done pruning. It might benefit from light watering and some liquid plant food to encourage new growth.

How can I prune my Algerian ivy during different seasons?

Early spring and late winter are the best times to prune your Algerian ivy on a large scale. If you want to control the size of your Algerian ivy, you can prune them as you wish, but be careful not to prune more than a third of the size of the plant. Yellow and diseased leaves may appear during the summer months when the Algerian ivy is growing vigorously and these types of leaves need to be pruned back immediately. These parts of the Algerian ivy cannot be restored and pruning increases the ventilation of the plant and facilitates its growth.

When should I prune my Algerian ivy through different stages of growth?

Strategic pruning is usually done at different times of the year or during certain stages of growth depending on the plant. However, knowing when to prune your Algerian ivy depends on where you live and how established your plant is. For example, if your Algerian ivy is a new resident, it’s a good idea to wait until the plant starts to grow back before you start pruning. On the other hand, if your plant is already established, you will want to prune the dry or dead parts in plant before new leafy growth appears in early spring or late winter. This is the time of year when plants are dormant and pruning causes the least damage to them. This is also the best time of year to do more extensive pruning. It’s important to note that if Algerian ivy is pruned too late in the season, it can leave new growth at risk for damage or disease. However, if your Algerian ivy is indoors this is not a problem and you can prune at any time. Since this can affect the long-term health and appearance of your plant, it’s important to keep this in mind when deciding when and how to prune. As your Algerian ivy grows larger over time, you can trim it as needed after annual pruning. Dead, damaged, or diseased leaf blade foliage can be removed as it appears. This could be done anytime when your Algerian ivy is growing.

How much/long should Algerian ivy get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

For healthy growth, make sure that Algerian ivy receives at least 3–6 hours of sun each day. This is actually a minimum requirement—most plants that can handle part sun can also thrive in full sun, but because they require less light for photosynthesis, they are more flexible than plants that require full sun or part shade.

What type of sunlight does Algerian ivy need?

Algerian ivy does best with exposure to full or part sun. They will perform best with direct morning light, but in summer they need protection from the strong afternoon sun. In temperate environments, too much hot afternoon sun can burn the leaves, damaging the plant's appearance and health.

Can sunlight damage Algerian ivy? How to protect Algerian ivy from the sun and heat damage?

Algerian ivy planted indoors can easily be damaged by direct sunlight when it's moved outdoors. The best way to prevent sunburns from overexposure is to move pots gradually from a shaded area to a brighter spot, gradually. But even plants that are acclimated to the summer sun can be damaged by extreme heat. In a heatwave, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist so that plants can cope with excessive levels of heat. Moving plants in containers to areas with afternoon shade or erecting a shade cloth over them can protect sensitive Algerian ivy during extreme weather events.

Does Algerian ivy need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Algerian ivy from the sun?

While bright morning sun and some full sun exposure can be highly beneficial for Algerian ivy, the harsh, hot midday sun of summer can be too much to handle.

If planted in the ground, the summer sun will usually ramp up slowly enough through the season for Algerian ivy to gradually adapt to its intensity. But a potted plant that has been indoors or in a protected location will often suffer injury when placed suddenly into a location where the direct summer sun reaches it in the hottest part of the day.

To protect this plant from the brutal afternoon summer sun, plant or place it in an understory location where it is shaded at midday by taller trees and plants or by a building or landscape feature.

What will happen if Algerian ivy gets inadequate sunlight?

When Algerian ivy receives too little sun, they may become pale green or display drooping, yellow leaves. While some leaf drop is normal, if leaves are dropping but no new ones are growing in to replace them, it is a sign that something is wrong. If Algerian ivy receiving inadequate light does manage to grow, the new growth is often spindly, pale, and prone to insect infestation. Paying attention to these signs and changing the lighting conditions of the plant will make a significant difference.

Does Algerian ivy need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Tender, new leaves are especially sensitive to sunburn. Bearing this in mind, very young Algerian ivy and when it's in a strong growth phase, such as in late spring and early summer, will be more sensitive to harsh sun and heat than the mature one or those in a more dormant fall growth stage. Algerian ivy fresh from a nursery is also usually not prepared for strong full sunlight and must be introduced to it slowly.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Algerian ivy?

Recently transplanted Algerian ivy will often experience a bit of shock and will need to be cared for carefully, either shaded from bright afternoon sun or placed in a protected area. On very hot days, you may see the leaves of Algerian ivy drooping—this is usually nothing to worry about. Plants will send the water in their leaves down into their roots to protect them from burning. However, if the leaves are still drooping in the evening or the next morning, the plant needs water. Always avoid watering during the hottest times of day, as sunlight can hit wet leaves and scorch them easily.

Algerian ivy that has been underwatered will be weaker than that with consistently moist soil. This can leave it with weak roots that are unable to protect the leaves on hot, sunny summer days by diverting water away from the leaves. Care for an underwatered plant by giving it a long, deep watering and then allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out before the next watering. Even if it loses its leaves, if cared for properly it will grow new ones.

What is the optimal temperature for Algerian ivy?

The best temperature for Algerian ivy to thrive is 65~80℉(18~27℃). During the primary growing phase, the highest temperature tolerable would be 95℉(35℃), while the lowest tolerable temperature would be 15℉(-10℃). This species is tolerant of low temperatures and will survive freezing winters. The perfect, highest, and lowest temperature range:

Perfect：65~80℉(18~27℃)

Highest：85~95℉(30~35℃)

Lowest：-5~15℉(-20~-10℃) or below

Should I adjust the temperature for Algerian ivy during different growing phases?

Research shows that Algerian ivy will begin to exhibit signs of stunted growth during prolonged periods of higher temperatures, especially during the development of axillary buds and the growth of main shoots. Keeping the temperatures consistent and cooler, around 65℉(18℃), will encourage vigorous growth after germination or transplanting.

How can I keep Algerian ivy warm in cold seasons?

Algerian ivy can withstand freezing temperatures when planted in the ground in areas that don’t get below of 15℉(-10℃) as an extreme temperature during the winter months. But if planted in pots or containers, then their roots must be protected from the winter cold. Do this by wrapping the container in a blanket or bringing it inside where it will be fully protected from the elements.

What damage will Algerian ivy suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

Greater harm will come to Algerian ivy if the temperature is consistently too high versus too low.

If Algerian ivy gets too hot, seed germination and photosynthesis efficiency is lessened due to hormone triggers caused by heat stress. The plant will show signs through wilting, leaf browning, and potentially death.

If Algerian ivy gets too cold, plant functions such as nutrient uptake and photosynthesis will cease, resulting in the possible death of the plant. If a single freezing event occurs during the growing season, then a membrane phase transition might occur, which can cause a cease in plant functions and death of the plant.

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for Algerian ivy?

Keeping the soil temperature consistent is one of the most important strategies to keeping Algerian ivy healthy, which leads to successful budding, flowering, and new growth. Do this by consistently watering, adding mulch to bare soil, and planting in the shade.

How can I keep Algerian ivy warm without a heat pad?

Due to the cold tolerance of Algerian ivy, heating pads will not be necessary if planted outside in the ground. If the plant is in an outdoor pot, then bring it inside a heated house and place it in a sunny window during the winter months.

How can I provide Algerian ivy with an adequate temperature condition?

To ensure adequate temperature conditions are present, plant Algerian ivy in an area with partial shade. If possible, use afternoon shade to provide the best protection during the hottest part of the day. This will also result in lower temperatures in the soil due to increased moisture retention. If Algerian ivy is planted indoors, then keep the container away from windows and out of direct sunlight during the summer months to prevent the soil temperature from spiking daily.

How can I save Algerian ivy from temperature damage?

During the summer or times of high heat, give Algerian ivy extra shade and water to help cool its leaves, roots, and soil. During cold snaps or growing season freezes, cover sensitive budding vegetation with frost cloth or water using sprinkler systems. If it’s only nearing freezing temperatures for a short period, then water during the day several hours before the freeze. If the temperature is predicted to remain below freezing for an extended period, then keep the sprinkler running until the temperature rises above freezing the following day.

Should I adjust the temperature for Algerian ivy in different seasons?

Algerian ivy is a mid-temperature plant that can easily tolerate the typical fluctuations of the seasons and remain a hardy species when planted in maintained landscapes areas, containers, or indoors. Therefore, adjusting the temperature during the different seasons is unnecessary for primary growth. If flowering is stunted or impeded, then allowing the plant to experience a season of winter freeze could help to revive flowering.

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for Algerian ivy?

If it becomes too difficult to lower the temperature for an indoor plant during the summer, then plant it outside in the ground or in a container. Make sure to plant Algerian ivy in a shaded location and water often to keep the soil moist.

Why do I need to fertilize my Algerian ivy?

Regardless of which kind of Algerian ivy you own, regular fertilization will help you grow a plant that has great overall health. The proper supply of nutrients leads to more vigorous growth and can help your Algerian ivy be more resilient to tough growing conditions while also gaining a better ability to fight off diseases and pests.

The foliage of your Algerian ivy is one of its most attractive features, which is why you should do all you can to keep it intact. Again, this means creating and adhering to a regular fertilization schedule that is specific to your Algerian ivy. Doing so will prompt your Algerian ivy to develop leaves with a deep color and a lush overall look.

When is the best time to fertilize my Algerian ivy?

The first time that you should fertilize your Algerian ivy is during the late winter or early spring. This type of fertilization gives your Algerian ivy all the nutrients it needs to resume healthy growth once the weather gets warm enough.

It is also beneficial to many Algerian ivy to provide an additional fertilizer feeding during early fall if you in a warm climate region. Fertilizing in early fall not only adds additional nutrients to the soil, which your Algerian ivy will use in the following growing season, but it also helps your Algerian ivy be a bit more hardy and capable of surviving the winter cold without experiencing foliage damage. Earlier fertilisation will ensure that the new branches have enough time to grow to withstand the cold winter.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Algerian ivy?

There are a few times during the year when you should not fertilize your Algerian ivy. The first time occurs during the early and mid-winter months, during which time your Algerian ivy will be dormant and in no need of feeding.

It is also unwise to fertilize this plant during the late spring and all of the summer. During that time of year, the weather will likely be hotter and can be much dryer as well. Both conditions make it more likely that your Algerian ivy will have a very negative response to fertilization. To avoid such issues, stick to a fertilization schedule that involves feeding exclusively during early spring and early fall.

What type of fertilizer does my Algerian ivy need?

In most cases, the most important nutrient for a Algerian ivy is nitrogen, but that does not mean that phosphorus and potassium are unimportant. On the contrary, your Algerian ivy likely needs a decent amount of all three main nutrients, which is why a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, can work well.

However, a more nuanced ratio of nutrients often leads to optimal growth for a Algerian ivy. Often, fertilizers that are a bit higher in nitrogen work a bit better. For example, a ratio of 10-6-4 can often work well. When fertilizing, you can use a granular fertilizer or a liquid-based one.

How do I fertilize my Algerian ivy?

To fertilize your Algerian ivy using a granular fertilizer, all you need to do is sprinkle the fertilizer on the soil at the correct time. The slow-release nature of granular fertilizer will release nutrients into the soil slowly over time. As is usually the case, it's best to water your Algerian ivy, at least lightly, before applying fertilizer.

As an alternative, you can use a liquid fertilizer, but this is less common. To use this approach, mix your fertilizer with water, then pour the water onto the soil around the base of your Algerian ivy. At times, it is beneficial to perform a soil test before fertilizing to see if you will need to alter the pH at all.

What happens if I fertilize my Algerian ivy too much?

Overfertilization is always a risk when you are feeding a Algerian ivy. Overfertilization is especially likely if you feed this plant at the wrong time of year, feed it too often, or feed it without watering the soil first.

When overfertilization takes place, your Algerian ivy may begin to develop brown leaves. Your Algerian ivy can also show stunted growth in some cases. On the other hand, it is also possible that too much fertilizer can prompt your Algerian ivy to rapidly produce too much new growth, much of which will be weak and prone to breaking. Weak new wood can also detract from the overall form and structure of your Algerian ivy.

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Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Algerian ivy based on 10 million real cases

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a white mold that appears on leaves. It can be wiped away.

Solutions: As powdery Mildew spores are transported by the wind, it can be tricky to put a complete stop to the spread of the fungus. Luckily, there are several easy treatments for plants that are exhibiting symptoms: If powdery Mildew seems to be impacting isolated leaves or stems, they can simply be trimmed away and disposed of. Disinfect pruning tools after doing this. Remove any plant debris from the ground around the infected plants and dispose of it in the garbage. Then, cover the soil with a thick layer of mulch to limit reinfection. Milk sprays have been found to be useful in controlling powdery Mildew. Make up a spray consisting of 60% water and 40% milk and spray on the affected plants. This can also be used as a preventative measure. In cases where powdery Mildew is more widespread, plants can be sprayed with a mild sulfur- or copper-based fungicide or a non-toxic solution made from baking soda and soap. Sprays can help areas that have been recently infected, though they are less effective against well-established infections. If possible, try transplanting the plants to a sunnier location. Though powdery Mildew does fine in hot, dry conditions, it is unable to reproduce without some humidity. Putting plants in more direct sunlight can help stop the spread of the fungus. Trimming around closely-packed plants can help improve airflow, which also prevents the reproduction of the fungus.

Sap-sucking insects

Sap-sucking insects can create dense clusters of small yellow or white spots on the leaves.

Solutions: Sap-sucking insects can be hard to spot, as they are often small and attach to the undersides of plant leaves. If you see signs of an infestation, follow these steps to eradicate it. Hand-pick bugs and remove eggs: Inspect your plants for insects and drop any you find in a container of soapy water. Look carefully at the undersides of plant leaves and squish any egg clusters you find. Use Insecticide: Targeted spraying can take out sap-sucking insects. Small infestations can be controlled with insecticidal soap, though larger outbreaks might require a stronger spray. Introduce natural predators: Many insects, including ladybugs and praying mantises, love to feast on sap-suckers. You can purchase them at garden stores and release them near infected plants, or encourage wild ones by creating habitat space.

Caterpillars

Caterpillars are fleshy moth or butterfly larvae that come in an array of colors, patterns, and even hairstyles. They chew on leaves and flower petals, creating large, irregular holes.

Solutions: Even though caterpillars are diverse, they all chew on plant parts and can cause significant damage if present in large numbers. For severe cases: Apply insecticide. For an organic solution, spray plants with a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which specifically affects the larval stage of moths and butterflies. Be sure to coat plants, since caterpillars need to ingest Bt for it to be effective. This will not harm other insects. Spray a chili extract. Chili seeds can be cooked in water to make a spicy spray that caterpillars don't like. Spray this mixture on the plants, but be aware it will also be spicy to humans. Introduce beneficial insects. Release beneficial insects to the garden that eat caterpillars, such as parasitic wasps. For less severe cases: Hand pick. Using gloves, pick off caterpillars on plants and dispose of them in a bucket of soapy water. Dust plants with diatomaceous earth. This powder is harmless to humans but irritates caterpillars. Therefore, it will make it difficult for caterpillars to move and eat.

Nutrient deficiencies

A lack of nutrients will cause a widespread yellowing of the leaves. The yellowing may begin at the base or top of the plant.

Solutions: There are several easy ways to remedy the nutrient deficiencies in soils. Use a water-soluble fertilizer. Fertilizers will include most or all of the macro and micro-nutrients the plants need to thrive. Adding some fertilizer to the soil will make those nutrients available and can combat deficiencies. Regularly apply organic fertilizer pellets. Organic fertilizers such as animal manures and bonemeal can supply plants with all the nutrients that they need to grow strong and healthy. Apply compost. Though not as finely tuned as artificial fertilizer, compost can nevertheless be rich in important nutrients and should be applied to the soil regularly. Apply nutrients via foliar application. In addition to supplementing the soil with nutrients, foliar fertilizer can be applied directly to the plant's leaves. Nutrients offered via foliar application are often taken up even quicker than those put in the soil, so the foliar application can be great for swiftly addressing specific deficiencies.

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Distribution Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Flower Color

Yellow

Green

Bloom Time

Fall

Leaf Color

Green

Yellow

White

Variegated

Name story

Algerian ivy

Algerian ivy is an evergreen ivy of the genus Hedera that naturally grows on the coast of North Africa, including Algeria, hence the common English name. It's often confused with Canarian ivy (Hedera canariensis), which is very similar but native to the Canary Islands.

Symbolism

Matrimony, Marriage

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Family

Genus

The seeds of tropical ash (*Fraxinus uhdei*) are commonly known as helicopter seeds. The genus name of “Fraxinus” is Latin for “ash.” The specific epithet “uhdei” is in honor of Carl Uhde, a German plant collector.

Species

Algerian ivy

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Stringy stonecrop is a perennial plant with stems that can be up to 25 cm length. It has star-shaped flowers that are yellow-green. This plant is extremely easy to propagate, simply pushing one of the stems into the ground in your desired location is enough to usually cause stringy stonecrop to take root.

Roundleaf greenbrier

Roundleaf greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia) is a common and visually noticeable vine that grows throughout woodlands and forests in the eastern United States and Canada. Roundleaf greenbrier is edible and cooked similarly to asparagus and spinach, when cooked. The vine grows berries which are eaten by deer, birds, and rabbits.

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Most Common Vine

Plant Collection Most Common Vine Cape honeysuckle See More Cape honeysuckle (Tecoma capensis) is a flowering plant native to South Africa. Despite the word honeysuckle occurring in its common name, the Cape honeysuckle is not related to the honeysuckle. Cape honeysuckle is often planted in garden hedgerows and is considered an invasive species in someContinue reading “Most Common Vine”

Plant Collection Best Perennial Plant to Grow Orange daylily See More The Orange daylily is a perennial plant known for its captivating lily-like blooms. Its natural habitats are meadows and forests, but it is also a common garden plant in temperate regions around the world. Each individual flower lasts only a day, but the plantContinue reading “Best Perennial Plant to Grow”

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Average water needs, watering when the top 3 cm of soil has dried out.

Most Common Vine

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Add to My Garden

Algerian ivy

Hedera algeriensis

Algerian ivy (Hedera algeriensis) is an evergreen ivy native to coastal mountains in Algeria and the north African coast. Algerian ivy is adaptable to most soil conditions. This species is considered invasive in some regions and has been cultivated in Britain since 1838. It's often planted as a ground cover on highway embankments to control erosion.

Spring, Fall

Planting Time

Care Guide for Algerian ivy

Water

Fertilization

Fertilization once every 2-3 months during the growing season.

Pruning

Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

Soil

Chalky, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots

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Questions About Algerian ivy

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What's the best method to water my Algerian ivy?

What should I do if I water Algerian ivy too much/too little?

How often should I water my Algerian ivy?

How much water do I need to give my Algerian ivy?

Should I adjust the watering frequency for my Algerian ivy according to different seasons or climates?

What should I be careful with when I water my Algerian ivy in different seasons, climates, or during different growing periods?

The age of the plants matter. Lack of water is one of the most common reasons the newly planted ones fail to grow. After they are established, you need to ease off the watering schedule.

Why is watering my Algerian ivy important?

How can I prune my Algerian ivy?

What should I do after pruning my Algerian ivy?

How can I prune my Algerian ivy during different seasons?

When should I prune my Algerian ivy through different stages of growth?

How much/long should Algerian ivy get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

What type of sunlight does Algerian ivy need?

Can sunlight damage Algerian ivy? How to protect Algerian ivy from the sun and heat damage?

Does Algerian ivy need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Algerian ivy from the sun?

What will happen if Algerian ivy gets inadequate sunlight?

Does Algerian ivy need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Algerian ivy?

What is the optimal temperature for Algerian ivy?

Should I adjust the temperature for Algerian ivy during different growing phases?

How can I keep Algerian ivy warm in cold seasons?

What damage will Algerian ivy suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for Algerian ivy?

How can I keep Algerian ivy warm without a heat pad?

How can I provide Algerian ivy with an adequate temperature condition?

How can I save Algerian ivy from temperature damage?

Should I adjust the temperature for Algerian ivy in different seasons?

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for Algerian ivy?

Why do I need to fertilize my Algerian ivy?

When is the best time to fertilize my Algerian ivy?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Algerian ivy?

What type of fertilizer does my Algerian ivy need?

How do I fertilize my Algerian ivy?

What happens if I fertilize my Algerian ivy too much?

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Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Algerian ivy based on 10 million real cases

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a white mold that appears on leaves. It can be wiped away.

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Sap-sucking insects

Sap-sucking insects can create dense clusters of small yellow or white spots on the leaves.

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Caterpillars

Caterpillars are fleshy moth or butterfly larvae that come in an array of colors, patterns, and even hairstyles. They chew on leaves and flower petals, creating large, irregular holes.

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Nutrient deficiencies

A lack of nutrients will cause a widespread yellowing of the leaves. The yellowing may begin at the base or top of the plant.

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Distribution Map

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Flower Color

Yellow

Green

Bloom Time

Fall

Leaf Color

Green

Yellow

White

Variegated

Name story

Algerian ivy

Symbolism

Matrimony, Marriage

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Carrots, ivies and allies

Family

Genus

Hydrocotyle sibthorpioides

Species

Algerian ivy

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