How to Remove Poison Oak
Poison oak is infamous for the unpleasant itchy rash that can develop on the skin of those unfortunate enough to come in contact with the plant. It grows as a shrub in sunny wooded regions and as a climbing vine in shaded areas, where it will rely on other vegetation and vertical objects for support. Avoiding poison oak is advised, yet sometimes it is necessary to come into contact with the plant in order to remove it. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Cotton gloves
- Plastic gloves
- Clippers
- Shovel or pick
- Plastic trash bags
Instructions
-
-
1
Wait until early spring or late fall to remove the poison oak. The goal is for the soil to be moist, as it is necessary to remove the root system with the plant. If the soil is dry, the roots will break off.
-
2
Dress in protective clothing. Wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, cotton gloves worn over plastic gloves and closed shoes. You want to cover all skin that might come in contact with the plant.
-
-
3
Trim the branches from large plants so that it's easier to reach the base of the plant.
-
4
Pull the plant and root from the soil. This can be done by hand if you are not sensitive to poison oak, or by using a shovel or pick to dig the plant and root from the soil. When pulling up each plant, secure the plant as close to the soil as possible, to make it easier to take out the roots.
-
5
Place the plants in a large plastic bag and take to a disposal site. Leaving out for the trash pick up is not advised, as those involved in pickup may be highly allergic to poison oak.
-
6
Wash all clothing, including shoes, after coming in contact with the poison oak.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Those highly sensitive to poison oak should not remove the plants.
Never burn poison oak, as the smoke is toxic.
