Outdoor Blog

12 Types of Outdoor Ivy Plants & How to Identify Them

Published

3 years ago

June 20, 2021

Outdoor ivy plants are climbers that are covered in green leaves, and the different types of ivy require different care routines.

Most have different leaf shapes and different leaf colors, but all of them are very low-maintenance plants. Because they are climbing vines, ivy plants need something to climb, like a trellis, wall, or whatever garden structure you have. Get ready to learn everything about ivy varieties, their botanical names, and their care needs.

Ivy is most well-known for climbing on structures.

1. English Ivy (aka Hedera Helix)

This evergreen vine tends to flower between late summer and late fall, and it’s very popular across the Atlantic. It has very large, dark green leaves, and it can grow up to 100 feet tall! This ivy plant needs partial shade and it spreads very quickly as a groundcover plant.

Some English ivy plants make good houseplants to put in hanging baskets too. The different varieties of this ivy plant include goldchild ivy, ivalace ivy, and needlepoint ivy. Goldchild ivy has variegated leaves, which means that the leaves are different colors on the edges and middle.

Most people think of this ivy as indoor ivy, so it’s up to you where you want to keep this plant. Ivalace ivy has curly leaves that are shiny green. The leaves are somewhat distinct because they curl so much at the edges. Needlepoint ivy gets its name because the lobes on the leaves are so sharp.

This type of ivy needs full shade because it’s more sensitive to light. This ivy is very common for ground coverage in gardens because colorful flowers will pop against its deep green leaves. English ivy is the most common ivy used, and it has over 400 cultivars.

2. Russian Ivy (aka Hedera Pastuchovii)

This ivy makes small white flowers during the summer months, and those flowers will turn into edible fruits once they finish flowering. The leaves on this ivy are a light shade of green and can develop wavy edges. This ivy does better as a climbing vine than it does at serving as ground cover.

This ivy is very invasive, so it’s not as common as the other types of ivy. It has great hardiness, and you’ll need to prune it every spring for it to keep growing at a healthy rate. It can take any kind of sun exposure, from full sun to full shade. It needs acidic soil like most ivies do. Another common name for this ivy is the Devil’s ivy.

3. Irish Ivy (aka Hedera Hibernica)

Irish ivy can climb walls or serve as ground cover. The ivy leaves of this plant are very dark green and have a glossy finish to them. This ivy has a very fast growth rate, so make sure that you keep a close eye on it to keep it from taking over your home or garden.

It grows yellowish-green flowers in the fall, and it grows purplish-black berries in the spring. Like many other kinds of ivy, Irish ivy is very invasive. It needs either full shade or full sun, and it will thrive in any kind of soil. Although it’s called Irish ivy, it’s also native in the Baltic regions, British Isles, and Scandinavian countries.

4. Boston Ivy (aka Parthenocissus Tricuspidata)

This is a type of woody vine that isn’t actually an ivy, but it’s labeled with ivies because it’s really good at climbing. Its leaves have three points that are lime green in the summer months and a reddish-purple in the winter months.

The flowers it produces aren’t very noticeable, but it makes berries in the fall that are a dark blue color. It requires some form of sunlight, ranging from partial shade to full sun. This plant actually belongs to the grape family, so the berries it produces are edible.

It needs either full sunlight or partial shade, so you should try to plant it in a place where it will get either of these options. Its flowers are goldish-yellow or white, and they bloom in the summer and spring. It can take any kind of soil, as long as it isn’t extremely acidic.

5. Himalayan Ivy (aka Hedera Nepalensis)

Out of all the ivies, this one has the best hardiness zone because it grows at very high altitudes. This ivy is native to countries in Asia, specifically Nepal and Bhutan. Its leaves are very dark green, but they have lighter veins. The leaves of this ivy are very spread out, so it’s not always the top choice for coverage of any kind.

Because this ivy came from such high altitudes in the Himalayas, it doesn’t do well in harsh heat. It should not be planted in acidic soil, only neutral soil. Its flowers are a light yellow, and they bloom during the summer and fall. Try to plant this ivy in a space where it will get full or partial shade.

6. Algerian Ivy (aka Hedera Algeriensis)

The leaves on these ivy varieties are lobed, large leaves. This type of ivy can be invasive, so make sure that you maintain control over this plant. Because it is a climbing plant, it will more than likely climb all over your house if it gets the opportunity.

Its leaves are very broad and a deep shade of green, but it has other varieties of variegation available to you. While any kind of sunlight exposure and soil will work well with this ivy, it grows more efficiently in constantly moist soil. One common variety of Algerian ivy is called Gloire de Marengo.

It’s often called heart ivy because the leaves look like hearts and are greenish-gray in the middle with white edges. Most growers have this type of ivy climb up trellises, walls, and slopes. While it creates leaves and berries, they don’t make much of an impact on the appearance of the ivy.

Algerian ivy is great in harsh weather, which means that it has great hardiness. Most people plant this ivy in California because it helps control soil erosion. It needs full shade or partial sun because it will dry out very quickly. This ivy needs a neutral kind of soil to grow in, or slightly acidic soil will also work.

7. Swedish Ivy (aka Plectranthus Australis)

This isn’t a very good climbing vine, so it’s mostly used for ground cover. Its leaves are dark green, and they have an oval shape. One interesting thing is that the undersides of the leaves are purple. This also isn’t a true ivy, and it’s in the same family as sages and mints.

All parts of this plant’s name are misleading because this plant isn’t even from Sweden; it’s from Northern Australia. Many people like to have this plant indoors because its trailing vines look very good in hanging baskets, but it’s common to find it outside as well.

It requires partial shade, and it needs neutral soil. The round shape of its leaves makes it great for ground cover in gardens because it will make the flowers pop.

Persian ivy looks like a heart, which makes it easy to remember.

8. Persian Ivy (aka Hedera Colchica)

This type of ivy has very shiny leaves that are very large compared to the other kinds of ivy leaves. The leaves can grow between six and ten inches. The leaves resemble the shape of a heart, so this ivy is sometimes referred to as Bullock’s Heart ivy.

Its leaves are very shiny and dark green. One variety of Persian ivy is called the Sulphur Heart. It takes the same heart shape as regular Persian ivy, but the color of the leaves is different. Leaves on the Sulphur Heart variety are a lime green color, and it produces gold flowers.

This ivy looks very good on dark walls because the leaves and flowers will pop. Persian ivy is sometimes referred to as Colicha ivy. It needs partial to full shade, so make sure that you don’t leave it exposed to full sunlight. This ivy won’t grow well in acidic soil, so make sure that you use neutral soil when planting this ivy.

9. Bush Ivy (aka Fatshedera Lizei)

This type of ivy is a hybrid mix of English ivy and Japanese ivy. It’s native to North America and Europe, and it’s typically used as ground cover or an indoor plant. Its leaves are deep green in the center and light yellow on the edge. It requires partial shade, and it needs acidic soil in order for it to grow well. Its flowers bloom in fall and are greenish-white.

10. Japanese Ivy (aka Hedera Rhombea)

The best way to recognize Japanese ivy is because its large heart-shaped leaves have white veins running through them. This type of ivy makes small flowers that take on the shape of umbrellas and are the color of light green. Once flowering is over, the ivy produces round fruits that are black.

Unlike most ivies, Japanese ivy isn’t used for climbing in gardens. Most people use it for ground cover. This type of ivy needs any kind of sun exposure except for full shade, or else it won’t grow. It can grow to be about 24 feet long when it’s fully mature.

It can thrive in any kind of soil, but it won’t do as well in soil that has lots of acidities.

Japanese ivy has three lobes.

11. Moroccan Ivy (aka Hedera Maroccana)

Moroccan ivy is a very close relative to Canarian ivy. Also, it isn’t the best ivy for climbing, so many people use it for ground cover. It’s used to growing in warmer climates, so it shouldn’t be planted somewhere that’s cold. It likes warmer climates because it originated from Morocco, the Canary Islands, and Northern Africa.

This kind of ivy loves rocky surfaces and tree trunks. This ivy has green flowers that bloom in the fall. It can thrive in almost any kind of soil, extremely acidic soil being the only exception. It needs full sun exposure or partial/full shade. This ivy looks very good on light-colored trellises because the leaves are such a dark shade of green.

12. Canarian Ivy (aka Hedera Canariensis)

This type of ivy is from the Canary Islands and is North African, and even though some people call Algerian ivy by this name, they are two different species. The growth habit of this ivy is very impressive; it can grow up to 100 feet tall! Its leaves grow very close together, so this plant is great for both ground coverage and climbing vine.

One interesting thing about this ivy is that you can train it to grow however you want it to. Its flowers bloom in the summer and fall and are a whitish-green color. It needs any kind of soil and any kind of sunlight exposure other than full sunlight. It grows in forests, so it makes sense that it really likes shade.

How to Spot Poison Ivy

Just about everyone has heard of poison ivy and how much it itches when you come in contact with it. It’s extremely common in North America. You can recognize poison ivy because it has a triad of leaves, but there are several different types of plants that look like this.

For people who love to hike and camp, it’s important to know what poison ivy looks like and how to treat it if you come in contact with it. You should also know how to clear out poison ivy infestations from your home.

Here are some of the defining characteristics of poison ivy:

Smoother/toothed leaf edges that aren’t serrated or lobed
Pointy leaf tips
Smooth or shiny appearance on leaves
Leaves look droopy
The middle leaf is bigger than the two other leaves
Two outside leaves grow from the main stem

Color and berries aren’t always the best indicator for poison ivy because leaf color varies with the season and many other plants have yellowish-white berries. The main thing to do when trying to figure out if a plant is poison ivy or not is to leave it alone.

You don’t want to be touching the plant and then come to the realization that it’s poison ivy. When trying to get rid of a poison ivy infestation, there are a number of things to do. First of all, cover yourself from head to toe to prevent touching the plant.

Next, choose a day when it’s not raining or windy so the leaves don’t get away from you. Then, cut the plant as much as you can and dig up some of the roots. After you’ve got what you think you can manually, use a herbicide to kill off the rest of it.

You might think that you’re done after that, but unfortunately, you aren’t. To dispose of the poison ivy, throw it away in thick garbage bags. Whatever you do, don’t burn it because it’s very dangerous to burn. Throw your gloves away as well.

All that’s left to do is wash everything, which means your gardening tools, clothes, and shoes. Touching poison ivy isn’t the end of the world, but it might feel like it at the time. You’ll more than likely get a very itchy, raised rash that can last between 5 and 12 days.

If you know that you’ve touched poison ivy, wash the area with cold water and soap. You can use an oatmeal bath, cortisone cream, and calamine lotion to relieve the itch, but time is the only thing that will get rid of the infection.

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

2 months ago

September 25, 2024

Caleb Cole

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

3 months ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

5 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.