COLUMBUS, Ohio (WDTN)—Typically, April showers lead to May blooms; however, the substantial rainfall in April and May resulted in an abundance of blossoms throughout June for the Miami Valley region. The higher-than-average precipitation levels have significantly boosted plant development and productivity in the area.
The pleasant climate is equally beneficial for the indigenous flora, known as poison ivy. This vine thrives with the abundance of moisture, climbing up trees and getting nearer to the sun.
“Think of a vine as numerous leaves attached to a slender stem, essentially climbing up a tree, a fence, or anything similar,” explained Dr. Don Cipollini, a biology professor at Wright State University.
“And thus, they heavily rely on water to maintain their leaves for both flushing and photosynthesis. Consequently, their presence fluctuates with the availability of water,” explained Cipollini.
Poison ivy is indigenous to Ohio and becomes crucial in the environment as temperatures drop and animal food sources become scarce.
They aren’t ideal as a food source for wildlife, particularly our migrating birds,” explained Katy Lucas, who works as an environmental education supervisor at Centerville-Washington Township Park District. “As a result, these birds usually end up consuming them last, similar to how people might avoid eating their least favorite dish until everything else is gone.
As per Lucas, animals tend to consume the ivy leaves after eating other types of food because these leaves have less flavor compared to options such as berries.
And that’s why they usually end up leaving these until last, similar to how we might push aside a dish we don’t enjoy,” explained Lucas. “So, the birds start with all the tasty berries and only turn to the poison ivy berries when those run out, which helps sustain them throughout the winter.
Poison ivy can be identified by its characteristic clusters of three leaflets along with its fuzzy vines that climb trees. This plant produces an oily resin named urushiol, which causes allergic reactions in certain individuals.
If you come into contact with it, rinse thoroughly using hot water and soap as soon as possible,” advised Cipollini. “There are specific detergent formulas made for this purpose, but plain hot soapy water should also suffice.
People who use wood for burning must ensure it does not have poison ivy on it, since this can cause irritation and harm to the respiratory system.
Should you have concerns about possible exposure to poison ivy, it’s recommended to reach out to your primary healthcare provider or go to an urgent care center.
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