To kill poison oak effectively, here are the main methods: Mechanical Control:

• You can physically remove poison oak by pulling it up or using a hoe or mower to cut it down. Wear protective clothing to avoid skin contact. Removing the entire plant including roots is important, and doing this in moist soil is easier. However, poison oak can resprout from root fragments if not fully removed. Also, never burn poison oak as the fumes are harmful.

Chemical Control:

• Herbicides with active ingredients such as glyphosate or triclopyr are commonly used to kill poison oak. Glyphosate is most effective when applied late in the season on green leaves, while triclopyr can be applied from spring to fall. Multiple applications are usually necessary, and herbicide can be sprayed on foliage or applied on freshly cut stems as cut-stump treatment. Care must be taken to avoid harming desirable plants nearby.

Other Methods:

• Horticultural vinegar mixed with salt and dish soap can be used as a safer alternative to harsh herbicides but requires repeated applications.
• Goats and some livestock can browse on poison oak, but the plant may resprout unless managed long-term.

Summary:

• Mechanical removal works best for small areas with care to remove roots.
• Herbicides like glyphosate and triclopyr provide effective chemical control.
• Avoid burning poison oak due to toxic fumes.
• Repeated treatment over multiple years may be necessary for control.

This covers safe and effective ways to kill poison oak plants.