Ivy

When one things of Ivy many images come to mind. Ivy makes up a large part of the Christmas greenery alongside mistletoe and holly. Ivy also covers the halls and buildings of many great universities, giving it that added touch of beauty. Ivy is also used as a decorative plant, accenting trees and shrubs. Finally, ivy is also associated with itchy rashes as one of the most beautiful forms is one of the more dangerous and unpleasant if held.

Certain types of ivy are used as part of the Christmas greenery. Wreathes and centerpieces are often made form holly, ivy, or evergreens. Ivy brings a different shape and tone to the other Christmas plants but accents them beautifully. Another advantage is that ivies will continue to grow throughout the year.

Many universities of North America and Europe have many of their older buildings just dripping in Ivy. There is just something about an old red or white bricked building and the ivy plant. The two go together like a hand in a glove. Some areas however have to tear the ivy off at a certain point. Despite protests, too much ivy has been known to erode the brickwork.

Ivy is also very decorative in gardens. It creeps up trees giving them an added touch of beauty. It is also quite easy to get it to grow along fences and garden walls. Again the Ivy does have to kept under control. Too much ivy can kill trees, ruin garden fences and take hold of a garden.

Finally, there is the ivy that many of us have come into contact with, not with a good result. The famous 3 leaved plant known as poison ivy as ruined many camping trips and nature hikes. Once this rash takes hold some people are subjected to misery. The more it is scratched the quicker it spreads and the worse it gets.

Ivy is a beautiful plant that can be highly decorative. It can also be quite destructive if it gets out of control. When one is out hiking remember, leaves of 3 let it be. If this is touched then there will be some miserable participants in the camp.