When you want to add some color to your yard, you might be wondering which outdoor plants are best for dogs. You can choose to grow African violets, Cranesbill, or Creeping phlox. These plants are not toxic to dogs, and are loved by hummingbirds. They grow in zones 3 to 9, prefer partial shade, and need well-drained soil. They look great in rock gardens as well.
Creeping phlox
If you have a dog, one of the best nontoxic outdoor plants for dogs is creeping phlox. This plant grows well in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9, but can suffer from fungal diseases. Powdery mildew and spider mites are common problems, and both can be treated by pruning back leaves and increasing air circulation. During hot summer months, it is helpful to mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture.
Careful pruning of creeping phlox is essential. Cutting back the plant to a third to half of its original height will ensure a more even blooming season. You can measure with a ruler to make sure you do not miss any foliage. Trim the plant every month or so to promote a healthy and beautiful blooming. The cutbacks are best done in the summer, before it begins to bloom.
While many phlox species are safe for dogs, be sure to research the native plant to avoid potential toxicity. If you live in a zone with deer and other pests, you might want to avoid putting a phlox plant in the area. In the case of autumn crocus, it is a good idea to keep your dog out of the garden, as it is toxic to dogs.
Although it requires care, this plant can grow in almost any soil type. Creeping phlox prefers a sunny location, but it will also do fine in partial shade. It also needs moderate moisture. Depending on your climate, you may need to water it every few weeks. Its pointy leaves do not tend to dominate your landscape. And, although it requires little water, it can survive without it.
The creeping phlox plant grows from three to eight inches tall and can spread to two feet. It is a great choice for ground cover, a companion plant, and even as a border for a garden. Spreading phlox does well in most soil types, including poor soil. It tolerates dry conditions, hot summers, and a wide range of temperatures, and is relatively pest-free.
Although phlox is a deer-resistant plant, its blooms are toxic to pets. White-tailed deer and eastern cottontail rabbit eat it, as well as certain types of weeds and grasses. The most common toxic plants for dogs are blue oat grass, maiden grass, and crocus bulb. For best results, you should buy the creeping phlox from a commercial nursery.
African violets
If you want to give your dog or cat a green thumb, African violets are a great choice. These flowers are mild and nontoxic to dogs and cats. However, some people are concerned that African violets may cause diarrhea and allergies. If you’re worried about your pet’s health, you can contact your local animal clinic to find out which plants are safe for them to eat. A professional veterinarian will recommend the best treatment option for your pet.
Cats are notorious for chewing on plants. While this behavior may seem innocent, it can be a sign that something is off. Many cats are finicky eaters and chew on unfamiliar objects, including plants. If you suspect your cat is chewing on an African violet, bring it to an animal clinic right away. To keep your cat away from the plant, you can use a cat repellent or put it on a shelf. Alternatively, you can use jute or macrame to hang the baskets.
Other flowering plants that are safe for dogs include African violets and tillandsia. These ground-hugging plants can tolerate a low light level and bloom in a variety of colors. They are great for homes with pets, but can also be grown indoors. In cold climates, African violets are annual plants. In warmer climates, they can grow into perennial plants. For those who prefer a flower that doesn’t require soil, African violets are the best choice.
Despite being poisonous to kids and rabbits, African violets are safe for your dogs and cats. However, the saponin content of these plants can cause indigestion in small amounts, so be cautious about what you give your pet. They may eat the leaves or the sap and develop a reaction. This is why you should not give your dog or cat African violets as a regular treat.
Another safe plant for your dog is the snapdragon. This beautiful flower can be grown from seeds, which is a great way to protect your pets and the plants. If you want to give your dog a garden full of color, snapdragons are an excellent option. Pansies are another nontoxic flower for dogs, and they’re a great way to make your dog feel loved and protected.
Sunflowers are another great choice for dogs and cats, but if you don’t want to give your dog the pleasure of flowering, you can try sunflower seeds. Sunflower seeds are safe for dogs, but the flowers themselves can cause digestive discomfort. Sunflower seeds are grown a few feet off the ground, so most dogs won’t be able to get to them. So, if your dog is concerned about allergies, don’t plant them anywhere near the plant.
Cranesbill
If you want a beautiful flowering plant in your garden, consider growing a Cranesbill. This perennial grows in a range of soil types, and blooms almost all summer and fall. The flowers are deep violet purple and attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. While these plants are not considered toxic to dogs, they do pose a risk. Luckily, they are not invasive.
The common name for this plant is Geranium sanguineum. It is a hardy perennial native to temperate regions. The chemical linalool and alcohol geraniol make it toxic to dogs. However, this plant is not harmful to cats and other pets. It is best planted in well-drained soil that has good air circulation. Cranesbill is considered a safe plant for dogs.
The plant’s flowers are deliciously fragrant. Cranesbill geranium is a great choice for underplanting shrubs. Despite the high risk of toxicity, it has the added benefit of being a great groundcover plant. It blooms all summer long and is an excellent groundcover plant. It will continue to bloom into fall. A great addition to a landscape, Cranesbills are great for landscaping.
While some species of geraniums are toxic to cats and dogs, others are safe. For instance, the Cranesbill and Bloody geranium are not toxic to dogs, but may require supplemental nitrogen during long rainy seasons. Hollyhock and Blood Red Cranesbill are both suitable for full sun or partial shade. Its blooms look pretty and can be grown from seed or tip cuttings.
Ingestion of the plant can cause mild to severe symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, and even kidney failure. When unsure, pet owners should take a sample plant to a veterinarian to rule out toxicity. A small amount of the plant can be toxic, so always be careful. If you have a dog, be sure to consult your veterinarian if you plan on planting a Cranesbill in your garden.
Another plant that’s not toxic to dogs is thyme. This herbaceous perennial has a scent similar to that of the sun, and it also attracts bees and other beneficial insects. These plants are a great choice for any dog’s yard because they look attractive in a hanging basket. Besides being a dog-safe plant, sunflowers thrive in temperate climates and stay in bloom from late spring to late fall.