Every gardener has to deal with Poison Ivy at some time. I’ve been lucky to have almost ten years without this noxious weed. Now there’s a small patch next to the patio. Since contact with the Poison Ivy plant causes a terrible rash, extreme caution is needed in attacking this pest. Always wear long pants, long sleeves and gloves when working around this plant.
The bad news is that even after it’s dead, the agent that causes the rash, urushiol oil, stays active for one to five years. You can get a rash from touching things that have come in contact with this potent oil-- garden tools, clothing, and even pet fur.
Getting rid of this nuisance can be a challenge. I’ve read a lot about eradication and there’s several choices—herbicides, digging it out at the roots (very risky because lots of urushiol is released) , and smothering it by covering the plants with something like black plastic, weed cloth, or newspapers. Each has advantages and disadvantages.
I haven’t decided how to attack it yet, but I know I have to get up my courage and get rid of this albatross. And quickly, too, because I think there’s a Poison Sumac plant, which also causes a rash, in the same bed!! Applying a herbicide sounds like the easiest solution, but most sites warn it takes several applications. Unfortunately, neighborhood cats roam my yard and I’m concerned about using herbicides for that reason.
I’m still learning about Poison Ivy and Poison Sumac but I found a couple of web sites that have some good information
http://www.poison-ivy.org/html/faq.htm
Wish me luck—hopefully I won’t be posting pictures of a Poison Ivy rash!!
I've been delinquent in checking the postings and have been delighted with the variety to catch up on. You always catch my interest and I learn so much about the most ordinary everyday topics (poison ivy, spiders). The pictures are just the icing on the cake. I'll be back soon. Thanks
Posted by: Rose | September 22, 2010 at 08:10 AM