To propagate a plant means to create new plants from an existing one. With ivy (like English ivy, Hedera helix), that’s super easy because it roots quickly from stem cuttings. You can turn one plant into a bunch of new ones for free—perfect for hanging baskets, shelves, or gifting to friends.This guide covers:The best time and toolsHow to propagate ivy in waterHow to propagate ivy in soilHow to care for your new baby plantsTroubleshooting and extra tips1. Get to know your ivyMost common ivies (especially English ivy) are:Fast-growing and viningRoot easily from stems where little bumps (nodes) areHappy both indoors and outdoors (but check if it’s invasive in your area before planting outside)You can use the same basic method for most types of ivy you’ll see sold as houseplants.2. What you need before you startNothing fancy! Just:A healthy ivy plantClean scissors or pruning shearsA glass/jar of water or a small pot with potting mixOptional: rooting hormone (helps, but not required)Labels if you’re doing multiple cuttings3. Where to cut: finding the “nodes”Look closely at an ivy stem and you’ll see:Leaves growing at little “joints”Tiny bumps or thicker areas along the stemSometimes, tiny roots already starting thereThose joints are called nodes, and that’s where new roots grow.For each cutting, you want:A piece around 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) long2–4 leaves on itAt least one node that will be under water or in soil4. How to propagate ivy in water (beginner-friendly)This is the easiest and most fun method because you can see the roots grow.Step-by-step:Take your cuttingCut just below a node (the bumpy leaf joint).Remove the leaf that will sit in water so it doesn’t rot.Place in a jar of waterUse room-temperature water.Make sure at least one node is underwater.Leaves should stay above the waterline.Find a good spotBright, indirect light (not harsh, direct sun).A windowsill that doesn’t get roasted midday is perfect.Change the water regularlyEvery 3–5 days, or when it looks cloudy.This keeps bacteria down and roots healthy.Wait for rootsIn about 1–3 weeks, you’ll see white roots starting.Let them grow to about 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) long before potting.Potting your rooted cuttingsFill a small pot with well-draining houseplant potting mix.Make a hole with your finger or a pencil.Gently tuck the rooted cutting in, cover roots with soil, and press lightly.Water well, then let the extra water drain out.5. How to propagate ivy directly in soilThis method skips the water phase and goes straight to potting. You can also put several cuttings in one pot to make it look full fast.Step-by-step:Cut the stemsSame idea: 4–6 inches long with a couple of leaves.Strip the lower leaves so you have bare stem with nodes.(Optional) Dip in rooting hormoneTap off the excess.Helps cuttings root faster and stronger but isn’t required.Plant in potting mixUse a small pot with drainage holes.Fill with light, well-draining potting soil.Insert cuttings so one or more nodes are buried.Put a few cuttings around the pot edge to make a bushy plant.Water and cover (optional mini greenhouse)Water gently until soil is moist (not soggy).You can loosely cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to hold humidity—just make sure it’s not tightly sealed and leaves aren’t touching the plastic.Place in bright, indirect lightNo strong, direct sun while cuttings are rooting.Keep soil slightly moist, not soaked.Check for rootingAfter 2–4 weeks, give a very gentle tug.If the cutting resists, roots have formed!6. Aftercare: helping your new ivy thriveOnce your ivy has roots and is in soil, treat it like a young plant:LightLoves bright, indirect light indoors.Outdoors, prefers partial shade.WaterKeep soil slightly moist but not waterlogged.Let the top inch of soil dry before watering again.Pot & soilUse a pot with drainage holes.Regular indoor potting mix is usually fine.PruningPinch or trim new growth to:Encourage bushier growthCreate more side branchesYou can use those trimmings as more cuttings 👀7. Propagating ivy from runners (if it’s in the ground)If you have ivy growing outdoors as groundcover:Look for stems that lie on the soil and already have little roots.Cut the stem on both sides of the rooted section.Carefully dig up the rooted piece with some surrounding soil.Pot it up or move it to another spot.Basically, you’re stealing baby plants the ivy has already made for you.8. Common problems (and how to fix them)❓ The cutting turned mushy or blackThat’s rot.Causes: water not changed, too deep in water, or soil too soggy.Fix: throw away the rotten cutting and try again with:Fresher waterClean toolsBetter drainage❓ Leaves are drooping or drying outCould be too much sun or too little water.Move to softer light and keep the soil lightly moist.❓ No roots after weeksMake sure nodes are actually in water/soil.Try slightly warmer temperatures and brighter (indirect) light.Take a few extra cuttings next time so you’ve got backups.9. Safety + invasiveness notesIvy can be toxic to pets and people if eaten, and the sap may irritate some people’s skin. Wash your hands after handling and keep away from curious pets.In some regions, especially in parts of North America, English ivy is considered invasive outdoors because it spreads aggressively and can damage trees and walls. Always check local guidelines before planting it in the ground.If you’re unsure, it’s totally safe (and easier to control) to keep your ivy as a houseplant or in containers.10. Summary: your ivy propagation checklist 🌱Choose healthy stems with several leavesCut below a node (4–6 inches long)Remove lower leaves so nodes are exposedRoot in water (change water often) or in moist soilKeep in bright, indirect lightBe patient for 2–4 weeksPot up, care for, and enjoy your new plants
