Poison Ivy is a common and often unwanted sight in many Kansas lawns and gardens. It is an invasive plant that can cause an itchy and painful rash for many people who come in contact with it.
Here are a few tips on how to identify and control Poison Ivy in your Kansas lawn:
Identification: Poison Ivy can be identified by its 3 glossy leaflets, and its leaves turn red in the fall. The leaves of the poison ivy plant are usually arranged in groups of three, and the plant can grow as a vine or as a shrub.
Avoid contact: The best way to avoid a reaction to poison ivy is to avoid contact with the plant. If you suspect that you have poison ivy on your property, it is best to leave it alone and call a professional for removal.
Mechanical control: If you have a small infestation of poison ivy, you can remove it by hand, making sure to wear gloves, long sleeves, and pants to protect yourself from the rash-causing oil. It is important to remove the entire root system of the plant to prevent it from growing back.
Chemical control: If the infestation is severe, there are chemical options for control, but it’s important to use the appropriate herbicide for your lawn, and to follow the label instructions for the best results.
Prevention: Poison Ivy can be spread via its seeds, which are dispersed by the wind. One way to prevent poison ivy from spreading is to keep the area around your home or business free of poison ivy so that the seeds are not blown onto your property.
If you suspect that you have come into contact with poison ivy, there are a few things you can do to alleviate your symptoms and prevent the rash from spreading.
Wash immediately: If you think you have come into contact with poison ivy, wash the affected area of skin immediately with soap and water. This will help to remove any of the rash-causing oil that may still be on your skin.
Use calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream: These over-the-counter products can help to relieve itching and inflammation associated with poison ivy.
Take an antihistamine: If you’re experiencing a lot of itching, an antihistamine can help to alleviate your symptoms.
Keep the affected area clean and dry: This will help to prevent infection and further spread of the rash.
Seek medical attention if necessary: If the rash is severe, spreads to large areas of your body, or is accompanied by a fever, seek medical attention right away.
It’s important to remember that the oil that causes the rash can be spread to other parts of the body, or to other people, by scratching. To avoid spreading the rash, try to avoid scratching and keep your fingernails clean and short.
It’s also important to note that the oil from poison ivy can remain active for up to five years, so be extra careful when handling any object or surface that may have come in contact with the plant.
At Taussig.co, we understand the challenges of controlling poison ivy in Kansas lawns. Our team of experienced professionals offers a range of services including removal, fertilizing, aerating, verticutting and pest control to keep your lawn looking its best. Contact us today to schedule your lawn care services and experience the beauty of a healthy, lush lawn free of poison ivy.
