Mother plants
The mother plants of our ivy varieties are grown either in the ground or in large pots. The ivy collection is located in the Jardins du Gué park, a magnificent 4-hectare site in the Thouet valley. The ivy can be placed in a variety of locations in terms of soil and exposure, enabling each species to express itself in the best possible conditions. Visitors to the park (open from April 1 to October 31) can thus enjoy them in a natural environment throughout their visit. Varieties that have not yet been planted in the ground are grown in large pots, mostly in the shade.
Ivy plants for sale
All our ivy for sale is grown in containers and in the open air.
It all starts with cuttings, which are planted in 9 cm pots. Some varieties root easily and quickly. Others, notably adult ivy cuttings, may require more than a year of patience and care, with more uncertain success rates.
When the cuttings have developed sufficient roots, they are repotted into a richer substrate to facilitate their development. When they are between 1 and 2 years old, they are repotted into 1-liter containers. These are then repotted 1 to 2 years later into 2-liter containers. In the case of climbing ivy, a stake (50 cm on average) is placed in the pot to support the ivy. One or two years later, the ivy is repotted into a 4-litre container. If it's a climber, the stake is replaced (new stake 1.20 m to 2 m long, depending on the plant's development).
As you can see, growing these ivy plants requires regular handling to ensure they develop in the best possible conditions.
Containers are placed in a shaded area, either by trees or by a canopy. This reduces the need for watering. Some varieties, however, which perform better in sunlight, benefit from less shade.
Ivy is not "grown" with fertilizer. Only a change of substrate at each repotting provides the nourishment needed for natural, healthy growth.
Bred the hard way, but with love, ivy will be much more likely to acclimatize to your garden.