Poison ivy, also known as poison creeper, three-leaved poison and other names, grows natively along fencerows, roadsides and other areas that are not well cultivated. For those allergic to the plant, an encounter can leave them with a simple itch or a life-threatening situation, depending on exposure. Poison ivy grows in all areas of the United States and is difficult to eradicate once established.
Choose a hot, sunny day to spray the poison ivy with chemicals. Wear clothing that completely covers your body, i.e., long sleeves, pants, socks and shoes.
Mix the brush-control herbicide in the sprayer according to label instructions. When choosing an herbicide, read the label to ensure that it is effective against poison ivy.
Set the nozzle of the spray to a wide spray angle. Pump the sprayer.
Spray each leaf of the poison ivy plant. The chemicals in the herbicide will be absorbed by the leaves and carried throughout the plant.
Repeat the application of the herbicide as needed to kill any new poison ivy that may appear.