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poison hemlock and compost #867886

Asked May 10, 2024, 12:56 PM EDT

Hi, I wanted to know if you had any information on proper ways to dispose of poison hemlock. Can it be safely composted in a backyard compost pile that will be used on vegetable plants are should it go into the trash. Thanks for your help! Ellen

Hamilton County Ohio

Expert Response

Do not compost poison hemlock in your home compost pile. The compost will not be safe to use. 

"a recently created poison hemlock fact sheet states:
Hand-removed plants should not be burned or added to mulch or compost piles intended for use in areas where additional exposure is likely, as it takes several years for the toxins to dissipate, even in dried plants parts. . . . It should be made clear that the intent of this composting precaution is for preventing dermal exposure when handling the compost. No intention was meant for protecting the soil from possible toxicity as it relates to growing produce."  https://hyg.ipm.illinois.edu/article.php?id=1327



Thank you!

 

Ellen Meehan (she / her)

Central Inreach Interpreter

 

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Glenwood Gardens

10397 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati OH 45215

 

GreatParks.org | FindYourWild.com

 

 

From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> On Behalf Of Extension Foundation
Sent: Saturday, May 11, 2024 3:54 PM
To: Ellen Meehan <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Re: poison hemlock and compost (#0137807)

 

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The Question Asker Replied May 13, 2024, 7:41 AM EDT
You’re welcome!
Thank you for asking!
And be careful out there. 
btw, you can also consult with your local OSU Extension educator in Hamilton County, Joe Boggs.  He’s written several excellent articles - with helpful photos- about poison hemlock/wild parsnip/giant hogweed, that you can look up in BYGL. https://bygl.osu.edu/
Joe Boggs, Adjunct Assistant Professor, Department of Extension<personal data hidden>https://hamilton.osu.edu/people/joe-boggshttps://bygl.osu.edu/<personal data hidden>Office: Ohio State Extension, Hamilton County5093 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223-1072

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