Poison Ivies Relief & Control

Poison ivy and other poisonous ivies, such as poison oak and poison sumac, are a threat year round, however, they are most prevalent in the spring and summer. The dangerous element of these plants is the urushiol oil in their sap. These plants can take shape in the form of shrubs or vines, and all three can be found in large swaths of the United States. Poison ivy plants have three glossy leaflets on each leaf, which can have smooth or toothed edges. Poison oak has three fuzzy green leaves in a cluster, with leaves having a rounded end and being deeply toothed. Poison sumac has the most leaflets per leaf, with seven to thirteen smooth-edged leaflets being present.

The urushiol oil of these plants causes uncomfortable and unsightly rashes that are accompanied by itching. While the rash is not contagious from person to person, the oil of these plants can remain on surfaces for prolonged periods of time, sometimes up to several years. The oil can be removed with soap and cool water, or rubbing alcohol.

While prevention is easier than remediation, the Essex County Co-Op has products that can help with both! Should you suspect that you have any of these ivies on your property and want to remove them, there are several 

Regardless of how you choose to eradicate poisonous ivies, it is imperative that you properly protect yourself and follow the instructions for use. Some tips for better knockdown include applying the herbicide to a dry leaf and to use a surfactant, which helps to better adhere the herbicide to the leaves. An example of a surfactant that the Co-Op sells is Bonide Turbo, which is a spreader-sticker.herbicide options. Bonide BK-32 Poison Ivy and Brush Killer is specially formulated to cut through the waxy outer coating of these leaves, killing the plant to the root. As a bonus, this product can be used in undiluted form to kill stumps. Additionally, we sell Ortho Groundclear Poison Ivy and Tough Brush Killer, which, similarly to the BK-32, kills to the root while also preventing regrowth for up to one year. Those that prefer a more natural route can use the Green Gobbler 30% Vinegar, which is a powerful, organic option. This is six times the strength of table vinegar, and can also be used as a multi-purpose household cleaner.

If you have been exposed to a poisonous plant, the Co-Op has several relief options. We sell Grandma’s Poison Ivy Bar, which helps to remove the poison oils and soothe the affected area with colloidal oatmeal. The lather of this product is left on the area to dry, providing long-term relief. Alongside Grandma’s, we also have another soap that helps to reduce the effects of poison ivies. This soap is made by Soap Lift and contains sweet fern, which is an aromatic herb, calamine powder to calm the skin, Manuka honey as an antibacterial and soothing agent, and Aloe Vera for its cooling properties. Both of these are made in the United States and are widely popular with our customers.

Come see us if you need advice on poison ivies or other outdoor related questions!