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How to Control Poison Ivy


Poison ivy is found throughout southern Canada and most ofthe United States except Alaska and Hawaii. It is readilyfound along road sides, fences, railroads, and streams.But it can also be found in your own back yard. It isplanted there in bird droppings from the birds who eat theberries of the plant.

So how does one get rid of the rash producing plant? Hereare some tips:

* Poison Ivy control is most effective May through Julywhile the plants are flowering.

* Pulling out the plant with rubber gloves is temporarilyeffective but the plants roots will regrow.

* Never burn it as the smoke from the burning plant cancause very serious respiratory and eye problems.

* Mowing the plant will eventually kill it but be sure touse a mower with a collection bag and don't touch theremains when emptying it. This method will take severalyears to completely eradicate the plant from your yard.

* Don't use a weed-eater as that will only spread thebroken pieces of the plant everywhere. Dried poison ivy isjust as poisonous as fresh. It is said that even 100 yearold leaves can still cause a reaction.

* Suffocation with black plastic has been known to work.This too takes time.

* An organic method consists of spraying the plant withsalt water. A ratio of one cup salt to a gallon of waterwith a few drops of liquid soap added to help the mixtureadhere to the plant.

* Broadleaf herbicides work but will kill any neighboringplants. Usually poison ivy is intertwined among plants thatyou want to keep, including trees. Using selectiveherbicides like Roundup can be applied to the plant stems asthey are cut off to prevent resprouting.

No matter what control method you use, be careful to avoidexposing your skin to the plant. Wear gloves, long pants,socks and shoes, and a long-sleeved shirt.

For more information about ridding your yard and garden ofthis pesky plant: http://www.apluswriting.net/garden/poisonivy.htm

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Copyright: 2005 Marilyn Pokorney

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney

Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and theenvironment. Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.

Website: http://www.apluswriting.net


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