How do You Get Rid of Poison Oak?

Well, sound eradication methods begin with positive identification, so let's begin with that. "Leaves of 3, let them be" is the familiar warning that applies both to poison ivy (Rhus radicans) and to poison oak. Poison oak often has leaves shaped like the leaves found on oak trees (thus the common name).

The leaves of both poison oak and ivy turn red in fall, and both plants produce white berries. Like Rhus radicans, poison oak vines (or, sometimes, shrubs) are indigenous to North America. The former is more widespread but does not appear on the West Coast. Meanwhile, one type of poison oak (Rhus diversilobum) grows primarily on the West Coast and another in a few parts of the East.

Okay, now you have a better idea of what you're dealing with. But how do you get rid of poison oak? Getting rid of poison oak manually.

Applying herbicides to the cut stumps. Applying herbicides to the leaves.

It will help the herbicide adhere to the ivy leaves. Contact your local agricultural extension office for the best method to remove poison ivy in your area. Goats are voracious consumers of poison oak and ivy.

If you can gain access to a goat, hire or borrow one to remove your poison ivy naturally. Nurseries or the agricultural extension office can point you in the direction of goats for hire. Remember that even if you use this method, you will still have to dig out the roots.

If you think you may have come into contact with Poison Ivy, wash with cold water instead of warm. It causes the pores of your skin to close up. Warm water opens the pores, allowing the irritant to work in deeper.

If you know you have poison ivy on your land and you have kids, it is a good thing to have a special soap on hand in case someone comes into contact with it. These soaps are available at your local drug store. The store's staff can help you find it.