Try one of these chemical-free methods to get rid of the pesky plant.
Pets can also spread the poison ivy oils by picking oils up ontheir fur.
Here, experts offer their best tips for killing poison ivy naturally to protect your yardand health.
Photo:Oliver Childs/Getty Images
Vinegar Spray Method
A DIYvinegar spraycan naturally kill poison ivy.
Spray the solution directly on the leaves and stems of poison ivy.
Spray the vinegar solution every few days until the poison ivy wilts and dies.
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Be careful not to spray neighboring plants, as the solution can kill them as well.
Mix one cup of salt with a tablespoon of dish soap and a gallon of water.
Pour the salt solution into a spray bottle and spray it on poison ivy leaves and stems.
You may have to reapply the solution several times to kill new growth and completely eliminate the poison ivy.
When you spray the solution, avoid contact with nearby plants, as they can be damaged.
Its crucial to get as close to the root as possible to prevent the plant from regrowing.
To use this method, boil a pot of water.
Boiling water can kill above-ground growth but often wont kill the roots.
Repeat applications every few days until new growth stops emerging.
When handling boiling water, take precautions to avoid getting burned.
Wear heat-resistant gloves and avoid contact with the water.
Great, neither are we!
Mix three parts baking soda with one part water to create a thick paste.
Then, carefully and with gloves, apply it to the plants leaves and stem.
Use a tarp to cover the affected area, blocking the light and oxygen the plant needs to thrive.
Leave it there for a week, then check to see if the plant is brown and dry.
If not, you’ll want to try another method.
To protect your hands, wear gloves when handling poison ivy roots, stems, and leaves.
Also, avoid composting poison ivy, as the urushiol found on it can persist in the compost.
Your best bet is to avoid them completely.
If you happen to touch one though, they recommend washing the infected area immediately with regular soap.
Rinse and repeat three times.
Then wash your clothes and shoes, which may be carrying some of the plant’s oils.
Maintain a healthy, dense ground cover to prevent poison ivy from establishing itself, says Warwick.
Ground covers compete for resources and can significantly reduce the light available to poison ivy seedlings.
Applying mulch can also inhibit its growth by blocking sunlight.
