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Growing Ivy near veg and fruit patches

#1 · 8th May 2023, 11:30 am

Is it safe to grow Ivy above vegetable and fruit? I have raised beds growing leaks, strawberries etc there is a wall above these raised beds that i want to cover with an evergreen and I thought of Ivy, but I've read that the berries from Ivy should not be consumed and I'm worried the berries will drop and fall into the vegetable and fruit beds below. If this is not recommended what other self clinging plant can I cover a wall with that is safe to grow above veg and fruit raised beds?

#2 · 9th May 2023, 7:11 am

Hi @leont95

I wouldn't worry too much about growing Ivy near vegetables because of toxicity, but I would be more concerned that it will spread and take over the flower bed absorbing nutrients as it goes!

In terms of the Ivy berries they are toxic but they are only likely to give you an upset stomach. It's small children and dogs you should be worried about with eating ivy berries but both with training or supervision this should never need to occur.

Why not consider Clematis armandii instead? An evergreen climber with gorgeous spring flowers, super tough too and not too hungry! (This is an affiliate link so if you do choose to buy receive a small commission that helps keep this blog free to use!)

One other thing to consider is following the no dig method for this raised bed which will reduce the need to weed and also keep digging the plot each year.

Here's my latest guide on plant feed so you understand which vegetables you grow will need what feed and also what probably won't need any assistance!