Does your pet love to bask in the sunshine with you while you work in the garden? It’s important to ensure all the plants you grow are pet-safe in case your curious companion decides to take a bite. Fortunately, there are a variety of beautiful and safe plants to choose from that will keep your garden both vibrant and pet-friendly.
Pet-Safe Garden Plants
1. Aster
These cheerful, daisy-like flowers come in various colors and are easy to care for. They thrive in partial to full sun and are safe for both cats and dogs. Asters also attract pollinators, supporting your local ecosystem.
2. Basil
Basil is a garden favorite with its delicious flavor. This sun-loving herb grows well in garden plots or as a potted plant. Explore varieties like Thai basil or lemon basil for a unique twist. Other safe herbs include rosemary, thyme, and cilantro.
3. Camellia
Known for their bold blooms, camellias can be kept as shrubs or allowed to grow into trees. Their vibrant flowers are perfect for a pet-safe indoor bouquet.
4. Carrots
Not only are carrots a healthy snack for dogs, but the entire plant is safe for cats and dogs. The feathery leaves can entertain playful cats, and the harvest can be shared with pets.
5. Catmint and Catnip
Both plants are safe for cats and dogs. Catmint is popular for its lavender flowers, while catnip contains nepetalactone, which excites cats. They make an attractive addition to any garden.
6. Lettuce
Lettuce is perfect for salads and is safe for pets. It’s low-calorie, making it suitable for enthusiastic eaters. Spinach is another pet-friendly option for your backyard mix.
7. Petunia
These colorful, trumpet-shaped flowers are non-toxic and adaptable to various climates. They work well as ground cover or in hanging baskets.
8. Radishes
Both the roots and greens of radishes are safe for pets. Their spicy flavor might deter pets from overindulging, making them a practical addition to your garden.
9. Sunflower
Sunflowers bring a sunny vibe to your garden and are safe for pets. Dogs often enjoy the nutty taste of sunflower seeds—just ensure they’re shelled to avoid an upset tummy.
10. Zucchini
Zucchini vines are non-toxic for pets, and cooked zucchini is a healthy, low-calorie addition to their diet. Remember to keep it unseasoned for pet consumption.
Unsafe Garden Plants for Pets
While planning your garden, it’s crucial to avoid plants that are toxic to pets. Some common toxic plants include:
- Apple tree
- Azalea
- Cherry tree
- Chive
- Chrysanthemum
- Daffodil
- Garlic
- Geranium
- Grape
- Iris
- Lily
- Lily of the valley
- Milkweed
- Oak tree
- Onion
- Rhododendron
- Sweet pea
- Tulip
- Wisteria
- Yew tree
By choosing pet-safe plants, you can create a beautiful and secure environment for your furry friends to enjoy the garden with you!
