Horticulture enthusiast warns of poison ivy growth in NYC neighborhoods

Greenery is often appreciated in the concrete jungle, but a local plant enthusiast says a poisonous weed is taking over parts of her neighborhood.

News 12 Staff

Oct 30, 2019, 11:37 PM

Updated 1,650 days ago

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Greenery is often appreciated in the concrete jungle, but a local plant enthusiast says a poisonous weed is taking over parts of her neighborhood.
According to the city Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, poison ivy is all over the city. Fieldston Road in Riverdale sees plenty of it, and it's an issue the Riverdale Press informed the community to earlier this month.
Poison ivy is famously identified by its leaf clusters, which grow in three. In the fall, the Health Department notes they turn a bronze color along the edge of pathways, roads and parking lots.
The Health Department notes many people will have an allergic reaction if they touch the plant, even if it's dead.
Horticulture enthusiast Sura Jeselsohn says she has been trying to get the poison ivy addressed for decades, and is trying to bring awareness to an issue many people don't know if lurking right around the corner.
The city Parks Department says there is no evidence to suggest that there has been a significant increase in poison ivy growth on park land.
If poison ivy touches your skin, the Department of Health says to wash your skin as soon as possible. A reaction can last up to three weeks. Information on removing poison ivy can be obtained by calling 311.
 


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