Removing poisonous plants from your yard or garden can seem daunting, but with some knowledge about common poisonous species, protective gear, and removal techniques, you can get the job done safely. Here is a comprehensive guide to effectively remove dangerous plants from your property.
Common Poisonous Plants to Watch Out For
Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are among the most widespread poisonous plants in North America. They contain urushiol, an oily compound that causes an itchy rash in most people. Stinging nettle is another irritating plant covered in tiny needle-like hairs.
Some of the most toxic garden plants are in the nightshade family, including deadly nightshade, jimsonweed, and bittersweet nightshade. Eating parts of these plants affects the nervous system.
Other dangerous ornamentals include oleander, castor bean, rosary pea, and lily of the valley. All parts of these plants contain toxins that can cause serious harm if ingested.
Protect Yourself When Removing Poisonous Plants
The most important precaution is wearing proper clothing that covers exposed skin. Thick denim pants, long sleeved shirts, boots, and gloves are ideal. Duct tape around cuffs provides extra protection.
It’s also wise to wear safety goggles to shield your eyes. A respirator mask helps prevent inhaling toxic particles or irritants.
Wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and cold water after handling poisonous plants. Hot water can open pores and spread oils. Discard contaminated clothing to prevent secondary exposure.
Manual and Chemical Removal Methods
Manual Removal
The simplest way to get rid of small poisonous plants is to dig them out. Use a shovel or trowel to remove the entire root system. Seal pulled plants in heavy plastic bags for disposal.
For larger shrubs or vines, cut the main stem close to the ground using loppers or a saw. Leave the rootball intact to prevent resprouting. Cover the area with mulch or landscape fabric to block sunlight.
Repeated mowing and weedeating will eventually deplete poison ivy and stinging nettle patches. Just be sure to wear protective clothing when using power tools near toxic plants.
Herbicides
Systemic herbicides that translocate throughout the plant are very effective against poisonous species. Glyphosate (Roundup) and triclopyr (Brush-B-Gon) work on most broadleaf plants. Repeat applications may be needed.
Non-selective herbicides containing diquat or pelargonic acid quickly kill plant cells on contact. They provide rapid burndown of poisonous plants but don’t affect roots.
Use herbicides cautiously according to label directions. Avoid breathing in spray mist or contacting treated plants until the product dries. Properly dispose of excess herbicides.
How to Avoid Spread and Re-Growth
After removing poisonous plants, monitor the area to spot any regrowth or seedlings. Early detection allows for quick treatment before populations spread.
Laying down landscape fabric, mulch, gravel, or sod creates an inhospitable environment for seeds. Competition from desirable plantings also helps suppress regrowth of toxic species.
Clean tools, gloves, boots, and tires that may have picked up plant parts or seeds before leaving the infested area to prevent spreading. Bag and seal all plant debris for disposal.
Avoid burning poisonous plants, as the smoke can contain irritants. Instead, bundle trimmed branches and vines for collection by hazardous waste disposal services.
When to Call a Professional
Extensive infestations of poison ivy or poison oak on your property may warrant hiring a professional landscaper. Companies with specialized equipment and training can remove large swaths efficiently.
You may also want to consult an arborist for removing mature poison sumac or oleander trees. Their expertise preserves desirable plants growing nearby.
In some cases, restrictions prohibit homeowners from using certain herbicides. Licensed pest control operators have access to more potent chemical options for full eradication.
Professionals can also apply targeted herbicides to kill roots under fences, patios, and other hardscapes that are difficult to access. This provides more complete removal with minimal digging required.
With proper precautions and techniques, you can reclaim your yard from hazardous plants. Refer to this poisonous plant removal guide anytime unwanted species appear so you can take action and protect yourself.
