Introducing "Ivy of the Year" 2005

Hedera helix
'Misty'

'Misty' SELECTED AS
"IVY OF THE YEAR" 2005

Hedera helix 'Golden Ingot' has been chosen as "Ivy of the Year 2003" by The American Ivy Society.

This variegated ivy, which came from Denmark, attracts immediate attention with its bright
yellow leaves edged with dark green, and splashed in the center with vibrant green and gray.
It is a "Variegated" "Ivy-Ivy" in the Pierot Classification System.* In field-tests Hedera helix 'Golden Ingot' has proved exceptional in many ways: It is hardy in cold areas down to minus 20 F. It can be grown in full sun to almost full shade, depending on where you live. It is easy to grow, moderately self-branching and not invasive.

The "Ivy of the Year" is chosen by a committee made up of members of The American Ivy Society, nurserymen and growers across the United States. 'Golden Ingot' underwent a three year trial period in various climate areas; Southern California, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.

The secret to successful outdoor planting of H.h. 'Golden Ingot' and all other variegated ivies is to plant them in lightly shaded areas that are out of winter wind and sun. The California nursery reported that they grew it in full sun for over 3 years, but cautions that although their "full sun" is sunnier than Pennsylvania or Ohio, the temperature is milder due to ocean breezes.

The Ohio test garden noted that H.h. 'Golden Ingot' came through many very cold winters without damage. It was grown in 40-50% shade and still maintained its bright yellow and green color.

The Pennsylvania grower commented that the gold is more intense in the springtime because of the bright light and cool temperature. The yellow gold coloration may go to a more creamy color in high temperatures. All variegated ivies have less intense coloring in the shade than where there is more light.

Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer. There is as misconception that you shouldn't fertilize variegated ivies because it encourages green growth. This is an old wives tale. All ivies, whether green or variegated, should have regular feedings.

*For more information on the Pierot Classification System or for general ivy information go to www.ivy.org. Click on "Between the Vines".

For more information about "Ivy of the Year" or photos contact:
Suzanne Warner Pierot, The American Ivy Society
33 Hickory Road, Willow, New York 12495
Phone or Fax 845 688 5318

Membership in The American Ivy Society is $20 yearly. Contact:
The American Ivy Society, National Headquarters
PO Box 2123, Naples, Florida 34106-2123
http://www.ivy.org

Photos: ©2005 Rachel Cobb

For Ivy of the Year 2001 Hedera helix 'Lady Frances'

For Ivy of the Year 2002 Hedera helix 'Teardrop' 

For Ivy of the Year 2003 Hedera helix 'Golden Ingot'

For Ivy of the Year 2004 Hedera helix 'Duck Foot'

For Ivy of the Year 2005 Hedera helix 'Misty'

For Ivy of the Year 2006 Hedera helix 'Anita'

For Ivy of the Year 2007 Hedra helix 'Shamrock'

For Ivy of the Year 2008 Hedra helix 'Gold Child'