How to Make Devil's Ivy Thick and Strong
Devil's Ivy, a common indoor ornamental plant, has its aesthetic value directly affected by the thickness of its vines. To maintain its vibrant vitality, one needs to master systematic maintenance methods such as soil improvement, nutrient supplementation, and pruning. This article will analyze key techniques from three core dimensions to help you cultivate a healthy Devil's Ivy with thick vines and lush leaves.
Key to Root Development of Devil's Ivy
Scientific Soil Mixing Scheme
High-quality soil is the fundamental guarantee for the thickness of Devil's Ivy vines. It is recommended to use a mixed matrix of decomposed leaf soil + perlite + coconut bran (3:1:1), with a porosity of >30%. Replace the potting soil every 2 years, and add 5% bone meal during potting to enhance calcium content. Heavy clay soil needs to be replaced immediately, and the soil quality can be improved by mixing in 30% coarse river sand.
Precise Fertilization System
Implement a three-level fertilization strategy during the growing period: ① Basic fertilizer: buried 15g of decomposed soy cake fertilizer every quarter; ② Fast-acting fertilizer: watered with a 1:800 diluted liquid fertilizer for ornamental leaves every month; ③ Foliar fertilizer: sprayed with a potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution (0.2% concentration) every week. Soybean dregs need to be fermented for 30 days and then mixed into the pot soil at a ratio of 1:20 to avoid direct contact with the roots.
Techniques for Shaping Devil's Ivy Vines
Systematic Pruning Rules
Adopt the "three cuts and three retains" principle: cut off sick and weak branches (diameter < 2mm), long branches (length > 50cm), and dense branches (spacing < 5cm); retain the main vine, new aerial roots, and strong lateral buds. Immediately seal the cut ends with wood ash after pruning, and apply high-nitrogen fertilizer to promote wound healing.
Directed Pulling Technique
Guide the vine growth direction using a palm column and secure every 20cm with hemp rope. Wrap the aerial roots with moss to promote thickening, and rotate the pot 180° every month to ensure even light exposure. Column cultivation can increase the diameter of the main vine by over 40%.
Through the combined effects of soil improvement, precise fertilization, and scientific pruning, along with moderate lighting (2000-3000lux) and humidity control (60%-70%), significant improvements can be seen within 3 months. It is recommended to measure the vine diameter monthly and take photos for records, adjusting the maintenance plan dynamically based on the growth situation to continuously create a thick and beautiful Devil's Ivy vine landscape.