A Guide to Identifying, Controlling, & Removing Big Poison Ivy Vines

Poison ivy—just the mention of it might make you itch. But have you ever wondered how big this pesky plant can really get? Whether you're dealing with a few small vines or a giant, tree-climbing menace, knowing how poison ivy grows and how to control it is key. Let's dive in and learn what a mature poison ivy plant looks like, and how to tackle those big, stubborn vines.

 

How Big Can Poison Ivy Get?

Poison ivy is more than just a garden nuisance. It’s a highly adaptable plant that can grow in various forms. Some of the most impressive specimens can climb trees or spread across large areas.

 

 

Vines 

Poison ivy vines can grow incredibly long—up to 75 feet or more! These vines aren’t just crawling along the ground; they can climb tree trunks, wrap around structures, and reach as high as the tops of tall trees. When poison ivy gets this big, it may look like a harmless, tangled mass, but it’s hiding the potent oil, urushiol, that causes rashes and irritation.

 

Shrubs and Ground Cover

If you’re not dealing with vines, poison ivy can also grow as a shrub in full sun, reaching heights of 1–4 feet. It can spread as ground cover too, creating a loose mat of green leaves that can invade large patches of your yard.

 

What Does a Big Poison Ivy Vine Look Like?

A mature poison ivy vine is easy to spot once you know what to look for. Here’s how to identify it:

• Aerial Roots: The most noticeable feature of a big poison ivy vine is the presence of numerous small, reddish-brown aerial roots. These roots allow the vine to cling tightly to tree bark or other surfaces, helping it climb higher and higher. This gives the vine a fuzzy, coarse texture, especially when growing on a tree like a White Ash.
• Woody Stems: As poison ivy matures, its stems turn woody and stringy. The thicker vines, especially those the size of a wrist, can grow very large and often twist around tree trunks, fences, and other structures.
• Leaves: The leaves of poison ivy vines typically have three leaflets, which can vary in shape. They are glossy green in the spring and summer, and often turn red or yellow in the fall. The iconic "leaves of three, let it be" rule still applies here, but remember—poison ivy can climb up trees, where the leaves might be harder to spot.

 

How to Get Rid of Poison Ivy Vines

While challenging, it's possible to effectively manage large poison ivy vines with careful effort. Here are some steps you can take to remove those pesky vines safely:

1. Cut the Vine and Apply Herbicide

One of the most effective ways to kill a large poison ivy vine is to cut it, and then treat it with an herbicide.

• Cut the Vine: Use a sharp tool to cut the vine about 6 inches above the ground.
• Apply Herbicide: Immediately apply a herbicide (such as glyphosate) to the stump of the vine. Make sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.
• Reapply as Needed: If the plant tries to resprout, spray the leaves with herbicide again until it is completely dead.

2. Spray the Leaves with Herbicide

If you can reach the vine’s leaves, spray them directly with herbicide on a warm, sunny day.

• Direct Application: Apply the herbicide directly to the leaves, being careful not to spray nearby plants.
• Repeat as Necessary: Poison ivy is tough, and it may take multiple applications to completely kill the vine.

3. Manually Remove the Plant

If you're up for a more hands-on approach (and you're well-protected), you can remove the poison ivy vines yourself.

• Wear Protective Gear: Always wear gloves, long sleeves, and pants to avoid contact with the plant. Poison ivy oils can trigger a rash upon contact with your skin..
• Dig Up the Roots: Carefully dig up the entire plant, making sure to get as much of the root system as possible. Poison ivy’s roots can spread up to 20 feet horizontally, so you’ll want to ensure you get the entire system to prevent regrowth.

 

Persistence Pays Off

Poison ivy is a persistent plant. It can take up to a year to fully eradicate it. But with consistent care and the right methods, even the largest vines are manageable. Just be sure to wear protective gear at all times to avoid any unfortunate rashes!
Note: Always follow the safety guidelines on any herbicide you use, and never burn poison ivy. The oils in poison ivy can vaporize when burned and cause serious rashes if inhaled. To learn more about the dangers of burning poison ivy, check out this blog about The Risks of Burning Poison Ivy.

Ready to Take Control of Your Outdoor Space?

Don't underestimate the threat of poison ivy. Even small infestations can quickly grow into a serious problem. Whether you're dealing with a small patch or a large vine, early action is crucial. By cutting, spraying, or digging up the plants, you can protect your yard and your skin from the irritating effects of poison ivy.
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