Ivy marengo 8”hb

**Ivy 'Marengo' (Hedera helix 'Marengo') - Short Description and Care Guide**

### **Short Description**:
**Ivy 'Marengo'** is a striking cultivar of English Ivy (Hedera helix) known for its unique, variegated foliage. The leaves feature a beautiful blend of deep green with silvery-gray edges, giving it a cool, almost metallic appearance. The plant has a trailing growth habit, making it perfect for hanging baskets, wall planters, or as a ground cover. Its attractive, cascading vines and adaptable nature make it a popular choice for both beginners and seasoned gardeners.

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### **Care Instructions**:

#### **Light**:
- **Ideal**: Bright, indirect light.
- **Avoid**: Direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves, especially the variegated edges. It can tolerate lower light but may lose some of its variegation.

#### **Watering**:
- **Frequency**: Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Ivy 'Marengo' prefers evenly moist soil but does not like to be waterlogged.
- **Tip**: Ensure good drainage, as standing water can lead to root rot. Always check the drainage holes of the pot.

#### **Humidity**:
- **Moderate to Low Humidity**: Ivy is quite adaptable to normal indoor humidity levels, but it will grow more vigorously with higher humidity.
- **Tip**: If the air is very dry, occasional misting or placing the plant on a humidity tray can help.

#### **Temperature**:
- **Ideal Range**: Between 55-75°F (13-24°C).
- **Avoid**: Exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it can stress the plant. Keep away from cold drafts or heat sources.

#### **Soil**:
- Well-draining, loamy potting mix is best. A standard indoor potting soil mixed with some perlite or sand will ensure proper drainage while retaining moisture.

#### **Fertilizing**:
- **Frequency**: Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring through summer) with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer. Reduce feeding in fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing.
- **Tip**: Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause rapid, leggy growth that may weaken the plant.

#### **Repotting**:
- Repot the Ivy 'Marengo' every 1-2 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a container that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot.

#### **Pruning**:
- Regularly trim back leggy or overgrown vines to encourage bushier growth. Prune any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain the plant's shape and health.
- **Tip**: Ivy responds well to pruning, and you can even propagate cuttings to create new plants.

#### **Common Problems**:
- **Yellowing Leaves**: Can indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or low light. Ensure proper watering practices and adequate light.
- **Brown Tips**: Often caused by underwatering, low humidity, or exposure to drafts.
- **Leggy Growth**: Typically a result of insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location or trim back vines to encourage fuller growth.

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**Ivy 'Marengo'** is a versatile, low-maintenance plant that’s perfect for those looking to add color and texture to their home with minimal effort. Its striking variegation and trailing vines make it a fantastic option for hanging baskets, shelves, or as a decorative vine in a pot. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced plant owner, it’s a great choice for adding greenery to any space.