If you're looking to add a touch of old-fashioned elegance to your space, consider incorporating English ivy into your design. Also known as Hedera, this genus boasts 12-15 species of evergreen climbing or ground-creeping woody plants. With origins spanning Western Europe, Central Europe, Southern Europe, Macaronesia, northwestern Africa, and central-southern Asia, these ivies bring a sense of beauty and sophistication to any environment. Whether you're looking to adorn a brick wall or add some greenery to your garden, English ivy offers a versatile and timeless solution. In addition to ivy, other climbing plants like climbing roses, Virginia creeper, and jasmine can quickly cover brick walls, concealing any imperfections and creating a stunning visual display. So, if you're in search of a plant that embodies classic charm and helps transform your space, consider the beauty and versatility of these climbing wonders.
What Kind of Ivy Grows on Brick?
When it comes to finding the perfect ivy to grow on brick, you’ve a few fantastic options. One popular choice is the self-clinging Boston ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata), which features beautiful, glossy leaves that turn a vibrant red in the fall. Another excellent choice is the Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), a native vine known for it’s stunning green foliage and colorful displays in the autumn.
Both Boston ivy and Virginia creeper are equipped with unique adaptations that make them ideal for climbing up masonry and brick structures. These ivies possess disc-like suction pads that allow them to firmly attach themselves to surfaces without causing damage. Instead of attempting to root into the brickwork, these vines simply adhere to the surface, providing a beautiful and low-maintenance way to enhance your brick walls with natural greenery.
Moreover, these self-clinging ivies aren’t only aesthetically pleasing but also offer additional benefits. One of the advantages is their ability to help insulate buildings, acting as natural thermal regulators. By creating a layer of foliage against the brick, they can reduce heat in the summer and provide some insulation during colder months.
In terms of maintenance, both Boston ivy and Virginia creeper are relatively easy to care for. They’re hardy plants that can tolerate a wide range of conditions, including various soil types and light levels. They’re known to be adaptable and can thrive in full sun to partial shade. However, it’s important to keep in mind that they can be vigorous growers, so regular pruning and training may be necessary to keep them in check and prevent excessive growth.
These self-clinging ivies are a wonderful choice for enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space and adding a touch of nature to your brickwork.
The alluring aesthetics of ivy growing on a brick house often overshadow the detrimental effects it can have on the overall structure. Despite it’s picturesque allure, ivy poses numerous problems when it comes to brick houses. Ivy can damage both the bricks and the mortar, infiltrate screens and cracks in windows, and even invade spaces between wood siding. Perhaps most concerning is it’s ability to retain moisture against the house, leading to the deterioration of the mortar in due time.
What Is the Problem With Ivy Growing on Brick House?
One of the many concerns associated with the growth of ivy on a brick house is the potential damage it can cause to both the bricks themselves and the mortar holding them together. Over time, the tendrils and roots of the ivy can penetrate the surface of the bricks, causing them to deteriorate and crumble. This deterioration can weaken the structural integrity of the entire wall and potentially lead to costly repairs.
Moreover, the ivy can also find it’s way into screens, cracks in windows, and spaces between wood siding, creating additional problems. As the vines continue to grow and spread, they can further compromise the integrity of these structures by exerting pressure and creating cracks or gaps. This can result in increased air leakage, water penetration, and potential damage to the insulation and overall energy efficiency of the house.
Furthermore, the attachment of ivy to the brick surface usually involves the use of small root-like structures known as holdfasts. These holdfasts can further damage the brick and mortar by penetrating into small cracks and crevices. As they expand, they exert pressure on the surrounding materials, gradually widening the cracks and increasing the risk of water infiltration.
Source: The Truth Behind Ivy-Covered Houses – The Glam Pad
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to adding plants to brick walls, there are various options to choose from depending on your desired aesthetic and purpose. English ivy and climbing roses offer a touch of old-fashioned elegance, while their evergreen nature ensures year-round beauty. On the other hand, fast-growing plants like Virginia creeper and jasmine can quickly cover unsightly brick imperfections and provide a lush, green backdrop. So, whether you're aiming for timeless charm or practical coverage, there’s a plant out there that will suit your needs and preferences.