Poison Oak

Pacific poison oak Toxicodendron diversilobem, also called Western poison oak, is common throughout California and can be found up to the 5,000 foot elevation. It is estimated that up to 4/5 of the population is susceptible to the itchy rash the plant causes. Even when the plant goes dormant in winter after a hard freeze and loses its leaves, the stems can still cause a rash when contact is made. Often people get poison oak from direct contact by walking through it or working in the vicinity but also from indirect contact like touching their pets or livestock when they have contacted the plant. When out for a hike, or a walk about on your property it is good to remember the old saying...if it has leaves of three...let it be!

Science has shown that less than 1 billionth of a gram, several molecules, is enough to infect susceptible people with its itchy rash. Professional precise timing of control methods can effectively remove this plant from your property, without harm to native oak trees, livestock and pets.

it should also be noted that poison oak should never be burned when there is a chance of inhaling the smoke because inhaling it can cause severe respiratory problems and even death.

Poison Oak "Leaves of three... let it be!"	Poison Oak vines Growing in a Tree
Bare Poison Oak vines growing up tree trunk	Poison oak growing up tree.

When controlling poison oak, it is best not to treat the plant to early in the season or after the plants have been pruned or mechanically mowed or disturbed. The more leaf surface, the more herbicides can translocate to the roots. It is also better to make treatments before the plants go dormant. It is important to know that some herbicides work better earlier in the year while others work better later in the growing season.

For more information on this or if wanting a free estimate for your project, please contact any of All Seasons Weed Controls licensed Pest Control Operators or Pest Control Advisers at 530-273-2323 or through our contact form.