"Have you tried Virginia creeper? I've noticed it's easier to redirect and manage overall, plus it looks pretty nice in fall."
Virginia creeper's definitely easier to deal with than English ivy, at least from what I've seen. Had a client last year whose gutters were completely overtaken by English ivy—it was a nightmare getting that stuff out without damaging anything. With Virginia creeper, it's usually a lot simpler to redirect or trim back when needed. Plus, the fall colors are a nice bonus...anyone else find it less aggressive overall?
Plus, the fall colors are a nice bonus...anyone else find it less aggressive overall?
Virginia creeper does seem easier, but I wouldn't underestimate it entirely. A few years back, I planted some along my fence thinking it'd be a nice, budget-friendly way to add a bit of privacy and color in the fall. And yeah, it was beautiful at first—deep reds and oranges that made my yard look like something out of a magazine.
But after a couple seasons, it got pretty enthusiastic. I had one vine sneakily wrap itself around the garden hose reel, and another one somehow found its way into my shed through a tiny gap near the roof. Not exactly horror-movie-level invasive like English ivy (that gutter story sounds rough!), but still enough to make me keep an eye on it.
So yeah, it's manageable...but I'd still recommend regular checks just to stay ahead of any surprises.
Yeah, Virginia creeper's definitely easier to handle than ivy, but I've had it pop up in places I didn't expect too. Still worth it for the colors and privacy though...anyone tried growing it in containers to keep it more contained?
I've seen folks try Virginia creeper in containers, and honestly, it can work—but you'll need a pretty hefty pot and regular pruning. The roots are surprisingly vigorous, so don't underestimate how quickly they'll fill up the container. A friend of mine tried it on her balcony to keep it contained, and while it looked fantastic for a couple seasons, eventually the roots got cramped and the plant started looking stressed. She ended up having to repot it into something bigger every year or two.
If you're set on containers, I'd recommend going with something large from the start—think half-barrel size—and be prepared to prune regularly to keep growth manageable. Also, make sure your container has good drainage; Virginia creeper doesn't like soggy feet.
Personally, I prefer planting it directly in-ground with some strategic pruning. It does pop up in unexpected places sometimes (like you mentioned), but it's manageable enough if you're vigilant. Plus, after dealing with storm-damaged yards for years, I've learned that container plants can become airborne missiles in high winds...so there's that to consider too!
I tried Virginia creeper in a big ceramic pot once—thought I was being clever keeping it contained. Looked great at first, but after about two years, the roots were busting out the drainage holes and sneaking into nearby pots. Sneaky little thing. Ended up planting it in-ground after that. Honestly, storms taught me the hard way that heavy containers aren't always as stable as you'd think...nothing like finding your prized plants halfway across the yard after a windy night.
