In this video, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook explains how to clear poison ivy.
Steps for Clearing Poison Ivy from Your Yard:
- Tape closed pant hems at ankles, and shirt sleeves at wrists; put on eye goggles and work gloves.
- Grab poison ivy plant close to ground and pull to extract root; soaking ground with water can ease root pulling.
- Stuff uprooted vines into plastic trash bag; place full bag inside of another bag for extra protection against the oily vines.
- Put trash bags out with household trash; never burn or compost poison ivy.
- To deter poison ivy from returning, cover ground with thick layer of leaves or wood chips.
- When done, scrub hands with a mineral-spirits-based cleanser, such as Tecnu or Zanfel; rinse well with cold water.
- Launder clothes in separate load in washing machine.
Tools:
Tools & Materials
- Safety work gloves
- Eye goggles