Poison ivy can be a persistent and troublesome plant in many yards and gardens. Although removing it is recommended, its oil, urushiol, can cause severe skin reactions, making removal a delicate task. This guide will walk you through the process of safely and effectively clearing poison ivy from your property to keep you and your family safe. In the video above, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook demonstrates the proper techniques and safety precautions for removing this pesky plant.
Understanding Poison Ivy
Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is a climbing or trailing vine native to North America. It’s known for its distinctive three-leaflet pattern. You can identify poison ivy by remembering the mnemonic phrase “leaves of three, let it be.” The plant can vary in appearance, with leaves that may be shiny or dull and can change color with the seasons.
Identifying Poison Ivy
To effectively remove poison ivy, you must first be able to identify it. Here are some key characteristics:
- Three leaflets per leaf
- Leaves alternate on the stem
- Leaf edges can be smooth or toothed
- Leaves may appear reddish in spring, green in summer, and yellow, orange, or red in fall
- Can grow as a vine or low shrub
The Dangers of Poison Ivy
Poison ivy poses a significant health risk due to the urushiol oil present in all parts of the plant. Contact with this oil can cause:
- Severe skin rashes
- Itching and burning sensations
- Swelling and blisters
- Potential respiratory issues if the plant is burned
Preparing for Poison Ivy Removal
Before you begin the removal process, it’s essential to prepare properly to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your efforts.
Safety Equipment
Proper protective gear is crucial when handling poison ivy. You’ll need:
- Long-sleeved shirt and long pants
- Thick, waterproof gloves
- Closed-toe shoes or boots
- Safety goggles
- Disposable coveralls (optional for added protection)
As Cook demonstrates in the video, it’s you should also consider taping closed your pant hems at the ankles and shirt sleeves at the wrists to prevent any plant material from coming into contact with your skin.
Tools and Materials
Gather the following tools and materials before you start:
- Garden shears or pruners
- Plastic trash bags
- Garden hose or watering can
- Mineral spirits-based cleansers (such as Tecnu or Zanfel)
- A thick layer of leaves or wood chips (for ground cover after removal)
Removing Poison Ivy
With your safety gear on and tools at the ready, you can begin the removal process. Follow these steps carefully to minimize your risk of exposure.
Uprooting the Plant
- Locate the base of the poison ivy plant near the ground.
- Grasp the plant close to the soil and pull firmly to extract the root.
- If the ground is dry, water the area around the plant to make root extraction easier.
- Continue pulling until you’ve removed as much of the root system as possible.
Proper Disposal
Disposing of poison ivy correctly helps prevent further spread or exposure. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Place all uprooted vines and plant material directly into a plastic trash bag.
- Double-bag the poison ivy by placing the full bag inside another bag for extra protection.
- Seal the bags tightly and dispose of them with your regular household trash.
- Never burn or compost poison ivy, as this can release toxic fumes and spread the urushiol oil.
Post-Removal Precautions For Poison Ivy
After you’ve finished removing the poison ivy, take these important steps to prevent recontamination and future growth.
Cleaning Up
- Remove your protective gear carefully, avoiding contact with the outer surfaces.
- Place all clothing worn during the removal process in a separate laundry load.
- Wash your hands and any potentially exposed skin with a mineral spirits-based cleanser.
- Rinse thoroughly with cold water to avoid opening your pores and allowing oil absorption.
Preventing Regrowth
To discourage poison ivy from returning:
- Cover the cleared area with a thick layer of mulch, such as leaves or wood chips.
- Apply an 8-10 inch layer to smother any remaining roots and prevent new growth.
- Monitor the area regularly for any signs of regrowth and address them immediately.
Alternative Poison Ivy Removal Methods
While manual removal is often the most effective method, there are other options for clearing poison ivy from your yard.
Herbicide Treatment
For larger infestations or areas difficult to access, herbicides can be an option:
- Choose a herbicide specifically formulated for poison ivy.
- Apply carefully, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Be aware that herbicides may affect surrounding vegetation.
- Multiple applications may be necessary for complete eradication.
Professional Removal Services
If the infestation is extensive or you’re particularly sensitive to poison ivy, consider hiring a professional, such as a landscape company that will have the proper equipment and expertise to handle large-scale removal. This option minimizes your risk of exposure but will be more costly, though for some homeowners, it is worth the trade off.
