Do you think ivy will winter well in large planters or should I bring it into the basement for the winter?

I have the ivy in large 1/2 barrel planters. I live in zone 5.

Do you think ivy will winter well in large planters or should I bring it into the basement for the winter?
I also live in zone 5…

I have had no success with ivy surviving in containers over the winter.

I suggest that you either move your ivy into the ground for winter or take your containers into a warmer place to go dormant over the winter. (Such as a garage or porch that remains that doesn’t drop below 30 degrees.)

I have success with placing containers by my dryer vent.

The warm air coming from the dryer vent seems to save roots from freezing over the winter in containers.
Reply:Ivy will survive most winters.... it is very hardy and also spreads quick so trim it to keep under control
Reply:Hi, my name is Eunice Saunders and I know the answer to your question. Ivy is very hardy and can winter very well out doors in any zone...except maybe Alaska. I would mulch the Ivy with leaves if you expect a really cold snap. I used to bury my Ivy planters (put the pots in the ground up to the rim.) This works very well if you are in a very cold Climate and it will also give you some new starters or runners in the spring when you dig your planters out. I would not bring them in for the winter as it creates weaker plants that can't stand weather changes. But you can bring them in if you like. Just remember to gradually bring them in and then gradually take them out in the spring. Good Luck! Visit my web site: http://agentsaunders.listingbook.com
Reply:I would put it where it can can some sun, cut it back hard. Or, you can take cuttings and start over.
Reply:Hi Susan,



I live in The Great White North where it drops to 40 below zero. The ivy weathers the winter outside with no problem.



Tony
Reply:Being in the UK, I have no idea what zone 5 is.



However, unless you have some rare tropical species of ivy, it should overwinter outside fine - ivy is a native to this country (the UK) and can be found growing up ruined buildings all across the country, including the far north of Scotland. Most, if not all, species of ivy are frost hardy, but if in doubt, check to see if there is ivy growing outdoors in your neighbourhood. If there is, you should have no problem.