Let’s be honest: Ivy isn’t exactly a rare find. You can spot it just about everywhere—the supermarket, your local florist, big-box home improvement stores, and, of course, all over the internet. Basic economics would suggest that with so much supply, the price should be dirt cheap. But when you’re shopping for your garden, it’s worth taking a closer look at that “overabundance.”
Home Improvement Stores – Usually Your Cheapest Bet
If you’re looking for a bargain, potted ivy at big-box hardware stores is usually the way to go. You’ll even see discounters and grocery stores selling them for next to nothing as seasonal specials. Sure, the pots are small and usually only have a few vines, but we all know that ivy grows like crazy once it gets settled. Spending a buck or two feels like a no-brainer, right? Well, maybe.
- Budget plants are often lower quality.
- You’re usually stuck with the most basic, plain varieties.
- They rarely get the TLC they need while sitting on a store shelf.
- They’re often either bone-dry or literally drowning in water.
Pro Tip:
Give the plant a quick “physical” before buying. If it looks vibrant and healthy, go for it! Just make sure to plant it outside or repot it as soon as you get home—especially if the soil is soaking wet.
Price Depends on Variety and Size
Here’s the thing: Ivy actually grows pretty slowly during its first two or three years. If you aren’t the patient type, you might want to spring for an older, more established plant. Just keep in mind that the bigger the plant, the bigger the price tag. You’ll also pay a premium for “fancy” varieties, like those with variegated (multi-colored) leaves. They look stunning, but remember they need a prime spot with at least four hours of sun a day to keep those cool colors.
Quick Note:
Don’t forget that climbing ivy needs a sturdy trellis or support system. Factor that into your budget!
Buying a “Ready-Made” Ivy Hedge
Because it’s hardy and evergreen, ivy makes a fantastic hedge. Since it grows “thin” rather than bushy, it’s a lifesaver for small yards or even balconies. If you don’t want to start a hedge from scratch and wait years for it to fill in, you can actually buy pre-grown hedge panels. These usually come in 3-foot-wide troughs where several plants have already grown together into a lush, manicured screen.
Of course, you’re paying for all that prep work. These panels usually start in the triple digits. If you want a version that’s already head-high, expect to pay even more. If you have a long property line to cover, those costs can add up fast!
Propagating vs. Buying
Whether you’re building an ivy fence or using it as a groundcover for those tricky shady corners, one little plant isn’t going to cut it. For a hedge, you’ll want to plant them about 14–18 inches apart; for groundcover, aim for about 10 inches spacing. You might get a bulk discount if you buy a lot at once, but the absolute cheapest way? Grow your own! All you need is one healthy “mother” plant to take cuttings from, and you can multiply your garden for free.
