Nestled amidst the rolling hills of University Park, Penn State’s iconic ivy-covered buildings stand as a testament to the university’s rich history and unwavering pursuit of academic excellence. Over the centuries, this verdant tapestry has become an integral part of Penn State’s identity, serving as a symbol of prestige, tradition, and enduring spirit.
The Origins of Penn State Ivy
The origins of Penn State’s ivy-covered facades can be traced back to the late 19th century. In 1853, the Pennsylvania Agricultural Society acquired 130 acres of land for the establishment of a state agricultural school. As the campus grew and new buildings were constructed, the administration sought to create a distinctive architectural style that would reflect the university’s mission.
In 1885, the university architect, George W. Rife, proposed planting ivy on the exterior walls of buildings to create a sense of age and permanence. His vision was not only aesthetic but also practical, as ivy provides natural insulation and helps protect the buildings from the elements.
The Ivy’s Significance
Penn State’s ivy has become more than just a green covering; it has evolved into a symbol of the university’s standing in the academic world. The ivy’s slow but steady growth mirrors the university’s unwavering pursuit of excellence over time.
The ivy also represents the deep connection between the university and its students. As students walk among the ivy-covered buildings, they are reminded of the legacy of those who came before them and inspired to strive for greatness themselves.
The Ivy’s Enduring Legacy
Today, Penn State’s ivy is not only a symbol of the past but a beacon of the future. It serves as a reminder of the university’s commitment to providing a transformative educational experience for its students.
In 2017, Penn State launched the “Ivy Counts” campaign, which aims to raise $50 million to support student scholarships and financial aid. The campaign’s success is a testament to the power of the ivy’s enduring legacy and its ability to inspire generations of students.
The Science of Ivy Growth
The ivy that adorns Penn State’s buildings is the result of careful planning and meticulous cultivation. The university’s horticulturalists have developed a specialized approach to ivy maintenance that ensures its health and longevity.
- Species selection: Penn State uses two primary species of ivy: English ivy (Hedera helix) and Boston ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata). English ivy is a vigorous grower with small, dark green leaves, while Boston ivy has larger, lobed leaves that turn a vibrant red in the fall.
- Planting methods: The ivy is planted as cuttings or small plants that are carefully staked until they establish a strong root system. The plants are spaced to allow for proper air circulation and to prevent overcrowding.
- Watering and fertilization: The ivy is watered deeply and regularly, especially during the hot summer months. The plants are also fertilized with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
- Pruning: The ivy is pruned regularly to control its growth and to prevent it from damaging the underlying structures.
The Ivy’s Environmental Benefits
In addition to its aesthetic and historical value, Penn State’s ivy also provides a range of environmental benefits.
- Air purification: Ivy absorbs carbon dioxide and other pollutants from the air, helping to improve air quality.
- Insulation: The ivy’s dense foliage acts as a natural insulator, reducing energy consumption in both winter and summer.
- Erosion control: The ivy’s roots help to hold soil in place, reducing erosion and improving soil quality.
- Habitat for wildlife: The ivy’s dense foliage provides shelter and nesting sites for birds and other small animals, contributing to the campus’s biodiversity.
Innovative Applications of Ivy
The positive qualities of Penn State’s ivy have inspired researchers and innovators to explore new and creative ways to use it.
- Bio-inspired materials: Researchers are studying the ivy’s adhesive properties to develop new bio-inspired materials that could be used in a variety of applications, such as medical adhesives and self-cleaning surfaces.
- Green roofing: Penn State’s ivy is being used as a natural roofing material on several campus buildings. The ivy’s insulating properties and ability to absorb water help to reduce energy consumption and stormwater runoff.
- Noise reduction: Researchers have found that ivy can be used to reduce noise levels in urban areas. The ivy’s dense foliage helps to absorb and deflect sound waves.
Table 1: Ivy Coverage by Building
| Building | Ivy Coverage |
|---|---|
| Old Main | 90% |
| Pattee Library | 85% |
| Sparks Building | 75% |
| Hawthorne Building | 60% |
| HUB-Robeson Center | 50% |
Table 2: Ivy Species Used at Penn State
| Species | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| English ivy (Hedera helix) | Small, dark green leaves; vigorous growth |
| Boston ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata) | Larger, lobed leaves; turns red in the fall |
Table 3: Ivy Maintenance Schedule
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Watering | Regular, especially during summer |
| Fertilizing | Monthly during growing season |
| Pruning | Regular to control growth |
| Inspecting | Regularly for pests or damage |
Table 4: Environmental Benefits of Ivy
| Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|
| Air purification | Absorbs carbon dioxide and pollutants |
| Insulation | Reduces energy consumption by regulating temperature |
| Erosion control | Helps hold soil in place |
| Habitat for wildlife | Provides shelter and nesting sites |
Conclusion
Penn State’s ivy is more than just a decorative feature; it is a living symbol of the university’s rich history, enduring spirit, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence. As the ivy continues to grow and thrive, it serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the university and its unwavering pursuit of knowledge and innovation.
