I have deep shade, and there are 2 ground covers that work for me. My favorite is Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum). This says it likes moist shade, but I will say that I do not have moist conditions and it is very happy. This is one of the very few plants that will grow under my Norway Maple, that seems to put out a chemical that inhibits growth of just about every plant.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galium_odoratum
The other one is Pachcysandra, which I am not crazy about, but it is green and grows well in crappy conditions.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pachysandra
For hanging baskets, since they can be moved around, why not find something that you really like, and occasionally move it into the sun to keep it happy? The only flower that I have that is happy in my shade is begonia, which does very well.
You have me stumped with the English ivy. Obviously it is not happy with your dirt in front of the porch. 
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