Since we've had kids, every decision we make involves them (even something as simple as gardening). We asked Bob Tuckey, Master Gardener, what precautions we should take when it comes to planting...
I want to expand my garden but am a little worried about picking plants. Are there any plants I should stay away from if I have young kids?
Children love berries and unfortunately many are poisonous. Here are some to stay away from:
- Holly
- Black locust
- Black-eyed Susan
- Daffodils
- English Yew Tree
- Hydrangea
- Wisteria
- Aconitum
What about my dog? Are there plants I should stay away from? Any that are safe for animals?
Yes, there quite a few plants that your dog should stay away from. Having said that, most plants don’t get bothered by dogs; they seem to know what’s not good for them. Here are a few that you might not want to plant in your garden:
- Amaryllis
- Azalea
- Castor Bean
- English Ivy
- Lily of the Valley
- Morning Glory
- Potato (green fruit, stems, leaves)
- Geraniums
There are also many indoor plants that aren’t very good for dogs such as:
- Aloe Vera
- Aspargaus Fern
- Bird of Paradise
- Corn Plant
- Dieffenbachia
- Dracaena
- Fiddle Leaf fig
As far as ones that are safe for dogs, pretty much any edible vegetable or herb is OK, and plants like Hostas, Dicentra, Echinacea and most grasses are also non-toxic.
Bob Tuckey is a Master Gardener, as well as the owner and operator of The Natural Gardener in Vancouver, BC.
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