Plants safe for cats and dogs
There are many things that enhance our lives, among them our pets and plants. To establish a happy co-existence, it’s important to make sure that plants are safe for your four-legged friends.
Though it’s common for dogs and cats to chew or ingest plants, the reasons aren’t always clear. It may be to calm an upset stomach, to help process hairballs, or to be a response to a nutritional deficiency. Whatever the reason, choosing plants that are non-toxic to your pets will keep them from getting sick. Here are some safe outdoor plant choices that will give you peace of mind. Even though these plants are regarded as non-toxic for pets, keep in mind if you apply fertilizer or pesticides, some may be hazardous to pets.
Aster, New England Aster: Most are perennial and tend to bloom later in the season when many other flowers are finished blooming.
Camellia: These tough evergreen shrubs are used as foundation plantings and for screening. Since they are popular as cut flowers, it’s reassuring to know that all parts are harmless to pets if ingested.
Coral Bells: With their large array of endless foliage colors, they are a delight for their versatility and toleration of shade. These are safe for pets and can be planted anywhere even in containers.
Bee Balm: White flowers resembling fireworks, this is a favorite of gardeners. It’s a magnet for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds and is safe for pets.
Petunia: The most loved of all annuals, they are a mainstay in the summer garden. They are valuable as a ground cover, bedding plant, in window boxes, and hanging baskets. All parts of the plant are safe for pets.
For more information on a list of pet-safe plants see-” ASPCA Toxic & Non-Toxic Plants List”. Stay cool, there are only 28 days to Autumn.
