Understanding the optimal time to get rid of poison ivy can make all the difference in effectively eliminating this pesky plant. You’ll still need to remove the dead plants as well. In this article, we will explore the best time to kill. “late summer to early fall is the most effective time, as that is when a plant pulls nutrients down into the roots to prepare for winter,” says mccord. In general, the best time to tackle poison ivy is in late spring to early summer —when the plant is growing strong and its leaves are fully out. Here, a weed control expert weighs the pros and cons of different ways to get rid of poison ivy and shares the most effective way to kill poison ivy effectively and permanently. When is the best time to kill poison ivy? However, it’s extremely unlikely that you’ll get all the poison ivy the first time you spray, so you’ll need to check after a few days and spray whatever bits you missed. Its vibrant autumn hues—ranging from golden yellow to deep crimson make it easy to spot and target for removal. Spring and early summer are the best times to apply herbicides, while late summer may require additional treatments due to plant dormancy. That’s when the herbicide soaks in best and does its job down to the roots. Whether you’re dealing with a small vine or a larger shrub, knowing when to remove poison ivy can significantly increase your chances of success. While this method is undeniably effective, many people don’t like using harsh chemicals on their lawn. When it comes to poison ivy eradication, timing is everything. First, poison ivy stands out in early fall, as it’s among the first plants to change colors. There are actually two key reasons that make autumn the ideal time for elimination. “the herbicide will go deeper into the plant. ” Winter is not ideal due to slow growth. We have all the information you need to successfully get rid of that annoying poison ivy from your yard for good! Timing makes a big difference.