Decorating with greenery comes with many benefits, but living plants can be harmful to pets. If you're considering adding plants to your space, and you have a furry buddy or more at home, it's important to make pet-safe choices. Here are some ideas for how to decorate with greenery while keeping your furry friends safe:
Opt for non-toxic plants
Luckily, there are plenty of houseplants formally designated non-toxic by the ASPCA. While these plants may still cause an upset stomach or other mild reactions, they won't be fatal if your pets decide to take a bite. Some of the best pet-safe houseplant options include peperomias, calatheas and hoyas. For succulents, opt for the echeveria variety. As long as you research your plant choices before bringing them home, you'll keep your pets safe from toxic plants.
Hang them up high
A simple solution to keeping pets out of your plants, regardless of their toxicity, is to hang them out of reach. Hanging planters come in all shapes and sizes, and there are many choices for woven hangers you can use with your favorite pots. If you prefer a more solid approach, keep your plants on floating shelves where they'll be out of reach while still enhancing your space.
Try artificial plants
Artificial plants have come a long way in recent decades, and some are almost too lifelike to tell the difference until you're up close. Artificial plants are perfect for pet owners because there is no worry of toxic plant compounds being ingested; however, be aware of what the fake plant is made of in case your pets like to chew on them.
Another benefit of artificial plants is they never need watering or sunlight. You can place them anywhere in the home for a touch of greenery that's simple and pet-safe.
About the Author
Ryan Mandigo
Ryan Mandigo is an award-winning professional broker associate with Omni Real Estate. Originally a native of New Hampshire, his love of real estate began 30+ years ago while swinging a hammer on a framing crew. He has always had a strong passion for helping people, whether it be assisting a couple in purchasing their first home, finding a home that fits a growing family's needs, or downsizing for those with an empty nest. He strives to build strong personal and professional relationships with being a true believer in the power of positive thinking and always willing to lend a helping hand.
He is also a co-founder and board member of the Swing Fore the Kids organization. A local charity that is 100% nonprofit and their sole purpose is to help needy children and young adults within Horry County communities. He finds great satisfaction and pleasure in seeing how working hard for a great cause and raising funds can help others in need. He is also on the Board of Directors for the Waccamaw Youth Center in Conway, where their mission is to provide at-risk youth "A Place To Call Home"
When he is not working, he enjoys music, working around the home, spending time with family and friends, turning wrenches on vintage vehicles, getting some wind therapy on the Harley or chilling with their dogs.
Some quotes he lives by - "Do what you like and like what you do" - "You have to be odd to be number one" - "Dreams don't work unless you do" And one of his favorites. "Positive and enthusiastic thinking in all you do"
