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 The good news is you can grow an indoor garden
even when you own pets. Yes, some do love to dig in the soil or even
eat our favorite houseplants, but with proper plant selection and
planning you can keep your pets safe while enjoying an indoor
garden.
Start by selecting plants that are safe for your pets. Consult the
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals website
for a list of pet-safe plants to grow and toxic plants you should
avoid. This will reduce your anxiety by helping you create an indoor
green space safe for your pets.
Incorporate a few easy-care plants like blunt leaf peperomia, cast
iron plant, spider plant, and Swedish ivy that are not toxic to cats
and dogs. Add some color to your indoor garden with dog and cat safe
African violets and Phalaenopsis orchid.
Next, adjust your gardening style to keep your plants safe from
curious pets. Mulch the soil in large planters with chunky woodchips
or decorative stones to prevent cats from using the planters as a
spare litter box. Just make sure the mulch is not attractive to or
poses a danger to dogs or other pets that might be tempted to eat
the mulch or get it lodged in their mouth.
Or invest in a commercial mat designed to prevent digging. Most are
made of plastic or rubber with upward facing nubs that humanely
discourage digging. Just cut the mat to size and set it on the soil
surface.
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Consider elevating your garden by growing plants in
hanging baskets or in pots placed on high shelves out of the reach
of curious animals. Be sure to keep up with pruning as those
long-dangling stems can provide tempting entertainment.
Break out the homemade or commercial repellents for
those persistent pets. Use products labeled for this purpose or make
sure your homemade concoction is safe for pets, plants and
furnishings.
Enlisting scare tactics may be the next step to keeping your plants
safe from grazing pets. Squirt bottles, noisemakers, and commercial
devices may help deter pets from digging and munching on plants.
Using a variety of strategies often yields the best results. Once
you find the best method for keeping your plants safe and pets
healthy and happy, you’ll be able to enjoy the beauty and benefits
indoor plants provide.
Melinda Myers is the author of more than 20 gardening books and is
the host of The Great Courses’ How to Grow Anything DVD series. Her
website, www.MelindaMyers.com, offers gardening tips and videos.
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