Hi Nancy -
I know that a number of companies have been looking at ID tests but am unaware of any product yet. One way to test to see if a plant has urushiol oil is to do a white paper test. Get some good gloves (ideally PVC coated) and a piece of white paper. Break off a leaf where it meets the stem and touch the paper with the broken end. The idea is that you want to get some of the "juices" onto the paper. Wait 30 minutes (really less). The spot will turn brown and then black within 30 minutes if the plant has urushiol oil.
FYI - I have found that over time it becomes easier to spot the poison ivy plant. There is a distinctive look to it. |
