Ragweed & Poison ivy
These two types of weed can be the source of many discomforts. Learn its specificities, the possible reaction they can cause and how to recognize them.
RAGWEED (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.)
One of the most widespread weeds in Quebec. This plant grows along roads, sidewalks and on lawns burned by calcium.
There are two types of ragweed in Quebec: giant ragweed (Ambrosia trifida) and common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia). Common ragweed is the most widespread species and is the main cause of hay fever from late July until the first frosts. It has deeply divided leaves and the male flowers produce huge amounts of very light pollen that can be carried over 200 km by the wind!
The best way to prevent allergies reaction is to pull out the plant, since it is the pollen that causes the symptoms. Unlike the poison ivy, ragweed is harmless for your skin. The best period to pull it out is before blooming season that starts mid-August. Its pollen is the cause of allergies for one Quebecer out of six.
Impacts of Ragweed on your health
POISON IVY (Toxicodendron radicans)
Poison ivy sap contains urushiol, an allergen that causes a painful skin rash (allergic contact dermatitis) in about 85% of people. The urushiol is present in all parts of the plant, except the pollen. The offending substance is released when the plant is damaged. Since urushiol is oily and non-volatile, it can easily stick to tools, clothing and pet fur. It can also remain toxic for a very long time.
The best way to avoid contact with the plant is to be able to recognize it! One must be wary, as poison ivy grows in many forms: in shrubs, ground covering, or as a climbing plant.
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