Identifying and Controlling Poison Ivy Plants in Ohio

Identifying Poison Ivy Plants in Ohio

Poison ivy is a common plant that grows in many areas of Ohio. Contact with poison ivy can cause an itchy, irritating rash in most people. It is important to be able to recognize poison ivy plants and avoid contact with them.

Characteristics of Poison Ivy

Poison ivy is a vine plant that can grow along the ground, up trees and other structures, or as a shrub up to around 4 feet tall. The leaves of poison ivy always have three glossy leaflets. The leaf margins are smooth or toothed. The leaflets can be oval, pointed, or lobed and vary from 2 to 6 inches long.

The stems of poison ivy are reddish or green. They contain an oily resin called urushiol that causes the allergic reaction and rash when it comes into contact with skin. Poison ivy has green or cream-colored flowers and waxy, white berries.

Where Poison Ivy Grows in Ohio

Poison ivy thrives in a variety of areas in Ohio. It grows well in moist soils and is often found in wooded areas, fields, thickets, roadsides, trails, backyards, and disturbed areas. Poison ivy vines often climb up trees, poles, fences, walls, and even tall weeds and shrubs.

Similar Looking Ohio Plants

There are some Ohio plants that can be mistaken for poison ivy. Knowing what to look for and differences from look-alikes can prevent painful cases of mistaken identity.

Virginia Creeper

Virginia creeper vine is often confused with poison ivy as it climbs in a similar fashion on trees and structures. However, Virginia creeper has five leaflets instead of three. It does not cause a rash when touched.

Boxelder Tree Seedlings

Young boxelder tree seedlings have leaves with three leaflets that can look similar to poison ivy plants. However, the straight-across leaf arrangement alternates sides and does not have the staggered arrangement of poison ivy leaves along the stem.

Fragrant Sumac

Fragrant sumac is a multi-stemmed plant that can resemble immature poison ivy plants. However, fragrant sumac only has three leaves per grouping palmately arranged, while poison ivys three leaflets each have their own stem off the main branch.

Treating Poison Ivy Rash in Ohio

Even careful attempts to avoid poison ivy contact can sometimes result in developing an itchy rash. Treating poison ivy rashes can relieve discomfort. Reactions can vary depending on exposure and individual sensitivity.

Mild Poison Ivy Rash

For mild poison ivy rashes that result in some itching and a few small blisters or bumps, over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can help reduce inflammation and itchiness. Cool compresses can also soothe itchy skin. Oral antihistamines may be taken to reduce body-wide allergic reactions.

Moderate to Severe Rash

More significant poison ivy rashes covering larger body areas or resulting in oozing blisters require medical attention. Doctors may prescribe oral corticosteroid medications to reduce swelling. Antibiotics may be used if blisters become infected. Severe cases may need treatment with steroid injections, skin creams, or phototherapy.

Prevention of Spread

It is important not to scratch or further spread poison ivy rash once it develops. Keeping the affected area covered with loose, breathable clothing can help prevent accidental spread and skin damage from scratching. Applying rubbing alcohol or degreasing dish soap to the area can help remove residual poison ivy oil and avoid continued spreading.

Safely Removing and Controlling Poison Ivy

Removing poison ivy from a property requires caution. The urushiol oil can cause reactions even apart from the live plant. Always wear protective clothing including long sleeves, pants, boots, and waterproof gloves when handling poison ivy plants.

Mechanical Removal Precautions

Carefully dig out small poison ivy plants trying to remove all portions and roots. Put all plant parts in heavy plastic bags for disposal wearing gloves. Repeat manual removal may be needed to control regrowth from remaining roots and seed banks in the soil. Follow up by planting desired vegetation to outcompete any returning poison ivy seedlings.

Herbicide Treatment

Larger poison ivy infestations or hard to reach areas like fencelines may need herbicide treatment for control. Systemic herbicides like glyphosate (Roundup) or triclopyr (brush killers) applied directly to poison ivy leaves or stems during active growth can provide elimination. Repeat applications are likely needed. Carefully follow all label precautions when using herbicides.

Control After Removal

Be on the lookout for poison ivy returning from roots or seeds after removal. Manual control or continued herbicide treatments will be needed to keep cleared areas poison ivy free. Establishing thick turfgrass or groundcover plantings can help prevent reinvasion long-term through competition.

Staying Safe From Poison Ivy in Ohio

Avoiding contact with poison ivy plants prevents uncomfortable and painful rashes. Being able to identify the distinctive three-leaved plants, wearing protective clothing, and using control methods cautiously allows Ohioans to confidently work, play, and enjoy the outdoors safely.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.