How to Eliminate Poison Ivy

Tips for Getting Rid of Poison Ivy

By Mark J. Donovan




Poison ivy is a pesky plant that is difficult to get rid of and that can cause major health problems to many people. There are a number of ways however to eliminate poison ivy. If you or your clothes come in contact with it, chances are you’ll break out in an itchy rash. The rash is red looking and consists of small water filled bumps on the surface of the skin. Rubbing the rash can lead to infections and medical attention may be necessary in some cases.

Poison ivy grows throughout much of the United States and portions of Canada. In New England it is commonly found along stone walls and fences.

Poison ivy also frequently grows near brooks and streams, and along road edges and fences. You can also find it growing in woods or areas in your own backyard.

Poison ivy is spread through its own root system and birds. Birds eat the small fruit berries associated with the poison ivy and their droppings lead to germination in all sorts of places.

To eliminate poison ivy from your yard, there are a number of techniques you can employ. First, however, it is important to understand that its peak growing season is from May through July. During this period the poison ivy plant is flowering. Thus May through July is the best time of year to get rid of poison ivy.

When eliminating poison ivy always make sure to protect your skin from the poison ivy oils. Always wear long sleeve shirts, pants, rubber gloves, shoes and socks. Also, remember to not touch your face and skin with any of the clothing that has come in contact with the poison ivy.

One of the best solutions for eliminating poison ivy is to apply a broadleaf herbicide. It’s important to note, however, that this type of herbicide will also kill nearby plants. Roundup is a herbicide that works well, and due to the type of application bottle it comes in you can better control the application of it so that you don’t destroy neighboring plants or shrubberies.

Another effective solution for removing poison ivy is to suffocate it by placing black plastic over it. However, this method takes a long time.

One of the most non-effective methods of eliminating poison ivy is to pull the plants out from the soil while wearing rubber gloves. The root systems usually are not entirely removed and thus the plant grows back in short order.

Another non-effective and dangerous method for eliminating poison ivy is to burn it. Burning poison ivy can irritate your respiratory system and eyes. In addition, it often does not destroy the poison ivy root system.

In summary, the best solution for eliminating poison ivy is to be on the alert for it and remove it while it is still limited in infestation.


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