It’s too bad poison ivy has such a bad reputation! I actually consider the plant to be an attractive vine, with its glossy green leaves and bright fall color. But let’s just say I learned my lesson about poison ivy years ago. The entire plant – roots, leaves, berries and all – contains poisonous oil called urushiol, which can cause allergic reactions for most people. (I guess I’m “most people!”)
The new growth of poison ivy is red and glossy.
Photo Credit: Donna W. Moramarco
If you see leaves of three, let them be.
Photo Credit: Donna W. Moramarco
Poison ivy grows as easily on tree trunks as it does on fences.
Photo Credit: Donna W. Moramarco
Poison ivy is a lush, fast-growing vine that can be found just about anywhere east of the Rockies. You can spot it growing in shady or sunny areas, along roadsides and up the trunks of trees. Even the best of gardens and landscapes have been known to have a poison ivy vine or two lurking. (You can thank the birds that drop its seed everywhere for that.)
So how do you deal with poison ivy on your property? You can start by properly identifying it. What does poison ivy look like? You may have heard the age-old saying, “Leaves of three, let them be.” The leaf of poison ivy is actually a compound leaf made up of three leaflets. When you look at a leaf, you’ll notice two shorter leaflets on either side of a long leaflet in the center. The leaf edges (also called margins) can be smooth, lobed or irregularly toothed. New spring growth is red, maturing to green during summer. Fall color can be yellow, orange or red. If you’re still not sure what the plant is when you first notice it, snip a cutting and put it in a sealed plastic bag. Bring the sample to your local garden center for identification.
If you’re allergic to poison ivy, it’s best to keep your distance. And if you don’t know if you’re allergic to it, it’s still wise to keep your distance. Protective gear – gloves and all clothing – need to be handled carefully after you’ve been around the plant. The oil can be on the fabric of the clothing, so laundering with a heavy-duty detergent and thorough rinsing is in order. And if your dog and/or cat has been hanging out in the poison ivy patch, beware of the oil on their fur! Your veterinarian or pet shop should be contacted before you “treat” your pet.
If you do come in contact with poison ivy, wash the contacted area immediately with soap and a steady stream of water. It’s best to do this within 15 minutes of exposure. There are many over-the-counter remedies available, such as washes and creams. And remember: Your doctor is only a phone call away; if in doubt, give him or her a call.
How do you get rid of poison ivy? Before you decide to just hand-pull the vine from your garden, know that you’ll need to get every bit of the plant – even the roots – if you want it gone for good. (And talk about grueling work!)
You can also resort to a nonselective weed killer. A few words to the wise, though: Nonselective weed killers must be applied with great care. They’re formulated to kill all vegetation, both good and bad. For best success, apply on a calm, cool day (below 85 degrees F) when the plant is in full leaf. (Unfortunately, you’ll probably need more than one application should new growth appear.)
I know you know better, but these two points are worth repeating: NEVER burn the vines, as the urushiol can spread in smoke! And even after poison ivy has dropped its leaves, don’t be fooled and think it’s safe to handle. Urushiol never takes a vacation – it’s on the job 365 days a year!
