Poison ivy might be a small plant, but it can cause big trouble. Whether it's creeping along a garden fence, climbing a tree, or popping up in your flower beds, this fast-growing vine can quickly take over parts of your yard. Worse yet, its oily sap called urushiol, can cause an itchy rash after contact. Therefore, it’s a plant you'll want to remove as soon as you spot it.
Unfortunately, getting rid of poison ivy isn't a simple task. "Like bamboo, poison ivy has an extensive root system of underground rhizomes that sprout new growth over far distances," says Amy McCord, florist and founder and CEO of Flower Moxie. "Dormant buds can also sprout months later, which is why digging out the roots tends to be most effective combined with targeted herbicide."
The good news is that with the right strategy (and a little persistence), you can learn how to kill poison ivy keep it from making a comeback. Ahead, experts explain the safest and most effective ways to get rid of poison ivy for good.
How to Identify Poison Ivy
To identify poison ivy, look for three pointed leaves growing from a single stem. “Leaves of three, let it be” is the classic reminder. Poison ivy typically grows as a climbing vine along trees and fences or as a low shrub. In spring and summer, the leaves are usually green and sometimes shiny from the rash-causing urushiol. In late summer, you might also see small white or greenish berries. In fall, they can turn red, orange, or yellow.
What Kills Poison Ivy Fast
If you want quick results, chemical herbicides are your best bet. “While natural methods do exist, commercial herbicide will be the most effective treatment for poison ivy,” says McCord. “It can be directly sprayed onto the leaves, and the leaves will begin to yellow and curl within a few days.” Choose a product labeled for poison ivy that contains glyphosate or triclopyr, and spray on a dry, calm day to avoid harming nearby plants.
The Best Homemade Poison Ivy Killer
There are several DIY methods that can help kill poison ivy, though some work better than others.
Vinegar, Salt, and Dish Soap
You can make a simple spray with items you may already have at home. “Vinegar, salt, and dish soap mix is the most common DIY option: 1 gallon white vinegar, 1 cup salt, 1 tablespoon dish soap,” says McCord. Spray it directly on the leaves, but be careful—this mixture can harm other plants and temporarily change the soil’s pH.
How to Kill Poison Ivy Naturally
If you want to avoid chemicals altogether, physical removal is the best method.
Dig Up the Roots
"While wearing complete protective gear, digging out the roots will remove the poison ivy permanently," says McCord. Be sure to remove as much of the root system as possible, since any remaining roots can produce new growth.
Smother the Plant
Another option is to cover poison ivy with a tarp or sheet of black plastic for several weeks during hot weather. Blocking sunlight while trapping heat eventually weakens the plant and kills its roots.
How to Dispose of Poison Ivy Safely
Proper disposal is just as important as removing the plant itself. Throw on gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and shoes, then follow these steps to avoid spreading urushiol, the oily resin that causes poison ivy rashes.
Bag It Immediately
Place poison ivy plants, including the roots, into heavy-duty trash bags as soon as they're removed. Avoid crushing or shaking the plants, which can spread the oil onto your skin, clothing, or nearby surfaces.
Never Burn It
Burning poison ivy is never safe. The smoke can carry urushiol into the air, where it can irritate your eyes and cause a severe reaction if inhaled.
Don't Compost It
Skip the compost pile. Urushiol can remain active for years, meaning contaminated compost could spread the irritating oil to other areas of your yard.
Clean Up Thoroughly
After disposing of the plant, wash your gloves and gardening tools with soap and water or rubbing alcohol to remove any lingering urushiol. Wash contaminated clothing separately using your regular laundry detergent and the hottest water that's safe for the fabric.
When Is the Best Time to Kill Poison Ivy?
Timing makes a big difference. “Late summer to early fall is the most effective time, as that is when a plant pulls nutrients down into the roots to prepare for winter,” says McCord. “The herbicide will go deeper into the plant.” Even if you’re using natural methods, tackling poison ivy at this time of year helps ensure you'll get rid of this pesky plant—for good.
Macie Reynolds is the assistant editor of E-Commerce and SEO for The Pioneer Woman.
Tierney McAfee is a freelance writer and Country Living and The Pioneer Woman contributor who covers entertainment, holiday & entertaining, food & drinks, design ideas, DIY, and more.
