Repotting a Mature Ivy: To Replace the Moss Pole or Not?

Connie's husband has a 30-year-old ivy on a "sticky" central pole (likely a moss or bark pole) and wants to repot but can't find a replacement pole. Nurseries haven't carried them in years.

Expert Answer: Cedar slabs are the closest modern alternative. Check big-box stores like Lowe's, Walmart, or Home Depot in a few weeks when seasonal stock arrives. However, reconsider repotting: a large, established ivy is perfectly happy root-bound. Repotting often shocks the plant and can kill it. If the soil is exhausted, gently remove the plant, wash the pot, mix fresh potting soil with extra perlite for drainage, and return the plant to the same pot, disturbing the root ball as little as possible. Alternatively, take cuttings, root them in a new pot with a new pole, and let the new plant establish before retiring the old one.