How long will the poison ivy oils remain active on my clothes and garden tools?
Urushiol may be transmitted on outdoor equipment, golf clubs, garden tools and clothing. The oil can remain active on these items for up to five years. Wear protective gloves and wash affected tools thoroughly with soap and water. Clean contaminated clothing in a separate wash load. Where do poison ivy, oak and sumac plants grow? Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac plants grow almost everywhere in the United States, except Hawaii, Alaska, desert areas and most elevations above 5,000. The prevalence and structure of each plant vary by region and season. The plants can appear as a ground cover, shrub or vine.
