Pet Friendly Gardening Tips
Posted on November 06 2019
Hobby gardening is a fun activity that can be done year-round. Growing fruits and vegetables at home for family members not only saves money at local grocery stores but educates youth about the importance of sustainability; where our food comes from; and eating fresh. While we spend a lot of time thinking about our families, we may neglect thinking about the well-being of our pets.
Some plants grown in yards may be toxic to companion animals if ingested in large amounts. This can cause digestive issues or fatalities in extreme cases. Here is a brief list of pet-safe plants to grow and which ones to keep away from pets:
Pet-friendly plants to grow:
- Spinach
- Peas
- Sweet Potatoes
- Blueberries
- Carrots
- Aster
- Roses
- Sunflowers
- Marigolds
- African Violet
Some of the above flowers are deer-resistant and work to rid deer from landscapes. Good to keep on-hand! If pets sniff or eat the above plants, they should be okay health wise.
However, some plants can be toxic and are considered forbidden for pet consumption such as:
- Autumn Crocus
- Lilies
- Mums
- Daisies
- Apples
- Peaches
- Apricots
- Plums
- Mushrooms
- Walnuts
- Acorns
- Red Maple and Oak
Most of the noes for dogs are fruits because they contain high amounts of sugar which is toxic to dogs. Eating mushrooms and other types of fungus can be fatal to dogs as we as some types of trees.
When growing plants at home, consider the health of furry companion pets and keep close eye on their behavior after eating plants.