Last Updated on February 28, 2025 by Tanya Janse van Rensburg
If you experience a run-in with poison ivy, you know how miserable it can be.
One minute, you're enjoying your yard, and the next, you're dealing with an unbearably itchy, blistering rash that seems to last forever.
Poison ivy can spread quickly, taking over flower beds, creeping up trees, and sneaking into the corners of your yard before you even notice.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to get rid of poison ivy plants safely so you can protect yourself and your family from painful rashes and keep your outdoor space comfortable.
Identifying Poison Ivy
Before you take steps to remove poison ivy, you need to be sure you can identify it correctly. Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) typically grows in three forms: as a creeping vine, a shrub, or a trailing plant along the ground. Here are the key characteristics:
- “Leaves of three, let it be”: poison ivy leaves grow in groups of three, with a shiny surface and pointed edges.
- Color changes: the leaves are green in the summer, turn red or orange in the fall, and may appear reddish when first sprouting in the spring.
- Growth pattern: it can climb trees, fences, and walls using aerial rootlets.
- Berries and flowers: poison ivy produces small, white, or yellowish berries and tiny, greenish flowers.
- Hairy vines: mature vines have a fuzzy or hairy appearance, which is a distinguishing feature.
If you are unsure if a plant is poison ivy, it's advisable to exercise caution and refrain from touching it.certain
Why Poison Ivy is Dangerous?
The danger of poison ivy comes from an oily resin called urushiol, found in its leaves, stems, and roots.
This substance causes allergic reactions in about 85% of people who come into contact with it.
Even indirect exposure—such as touching clothing, tools, or pets that have brushed against poison ivy—can lead to a rash. The effects include:
- Severe itching
- Redness and inflammation
- Blisters that may ooze and crust over
- Swelling in severe cases
Urushiol remains active for years, meaning dried plants or contaminated objects can still cause a reaction long after initial contact.
How to Get Rid of Poison Ivy Plants Safely?
Now that you can identify poison ivy, it's time to remove it. Because of the risks involved, proper precautions must be taken to avoid exposure.
Follow these steps for safe and effective removal:
Step 1: Gather Protective Gear
Before handling poison ivy, wear protective clothing, including:
- Long sleeves and pants
- Thick gloves (rubber or disposable)
- Goggles or safety glasses
- A mask to prevent inhaling airborne particles
- Boots or closed-toe shoes
Step 2: Choose Your Removal Method
There are several approaches to removing poison ivy, depending on the severity of the infestation.
Manual Removal
- Best for small patches
- Water the area first to loosen the soil
- Use a shovel or trowel to dig out the plant, ensuring you remove the entire root system to prevent regrowth
- Place all plant material in a sealed plastic bag and dispose of it in the trash (do not compost!)
- Wash your hands, tools, and clothing immediately with soap and water
Using Herbicides
- Best for larger infestations
- Use glyphosate- or triclopyr-based herbicides specifically labeled for poison ivy
- Apply the herbicide on a dry, windless day to prevent it from affecting other plants
- Follow all safety instructions on the product label
- Be prepared for repeat applications if the plant regrows
Smothering the Plant
- Best for preventing regrowth
- After cutting back the plant, cover the area with a heavy tarp or thick layers of cardboard
- This blocks sunlight and air, starving the roots
- Keep the area covered for at least six months to ensure the plant is fully killed
Proper Disposal of Poison Ivy
Never burn poison ivy, as the smoke can carry urushiol particles, leading to severe respiratory issues.
Instead, use these disposal methods:
- Bag all removed plants and roots in plastic bags and dispose of them in the trash
- Clean all tools with rubbing alcohol or soapy water
- Wash gloves and clothing separately from other laundry to avoid contamination
Preventing Poison Ivy from Returning
After removing poison ivy, take steps to prevent it from coming back:
- Regularly inspect your yard: for new growth and remove seedlings immediately
- Mulch or landscape: with thick ground cover plants to crowd out poison ivy
- Use a barrier: such as gravel, mulch, or landscaping fabric to block regrowth
- Train pets to avoid poison ivy-prone areas, as they can carry urushiol on their fur
- Consider natural deterrents, like planting native plants that compete with poison ivy
What to Do If You Are Contacted by Poison Ivy?
If you accidentally touch poison ivy, act quickly:
- Wash the area immediately with soap and cool water to remove urushiol
- Use rubbing alcohol or specialized poison ivy wash to break down the oils
- Avoid scratching to prevent spreading the rash
- Apply calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream to reduce itching
- Take antihistamines to relieve allergic reactions
- Seek medical help if you have a severe reaction
Conclusion
Dealing with poison ivy can be frustrating, but with the right approach, you can take back control of your yard.
Identifying the plant early and removing it safely will help keep your outdoor space comfortable and enjoyable.
Whether you tackle the problem yourself or call in a professional, staying proactive is key to preventing poison ivy from making a comeback.
By following these steps, you can enjoy a yard free from the itch and irritation of poison ivy, giving you peace of mind whenever you step outside.
