By One of the best ways to add more life and color to your home is by having plants. But you should be careful in choosing them, especially if you have pets. There are plenty of floras that can be toxic to your cats and dogs when they chew on or ingest them. Examples of these non-pet-friendly indoor plants are croton, jade plant, pothos, aloe, peace lily, snake plant, and English ivy.
If you’re planning to visit a garden centre in Hamilton, feel free to ask the staff for their pet-friendly plants. Here are some floras they may recommend:
- Peperomia
This perennial tropical plant is native to Mexico, South America, and the West Indies. It has more than 1,000 species that are non-toxic to pets. If you’re a beginner plant enthusiast, peperomia is perfect for you. It’s easy to care for as it doesn’t require frequent watering. It can also survive without supplemental fertilizers.
- Spider Plant
This adaptable houseplant got its name from the small plantlets it produces on its long trailing stems that resemble spiders. It is one of the easiest to grow, so it’s also perfect for newbie gardeners. Just provide it with well-drained soil and indirect light, and it will surely flourish. Spider plants are not only pet-friendly but are also great for filtering the air.
- Polka Dot Plant
This eye-catching little plant stands out against other foliage because of its brightly spotted leaves. It comes in several varieties of color, but the most common on the market features pink base leaves and green spots. The key to growing polka dot plants are humidity and warm temperature.
- Ponytail Palm Tree
This popular and visually stunning houseplant is neither a palm nor a tree. It is a succulent plant and a member of the Agave family. Ponytail palm trees grow best in semi-dry conditions and bright light. But since they are forgiving plants, they can also tolerate low light conditions. Just make sure to bring them outdoors during summer.
- Haworthia
This delightful miniature plant is native to South Africa. Compared to other succulents, haworthia can tolerate more indirect light. It is also considered one of the easiest to grow. If you have taken care of aloe and echevaria, you can apply the same method or practices you do with them to a haworthia plant.
- Air Plants
As the name suggests, these fascinating little plants can grow in the air. This means they can survive without soil. But like any other houseplants, they do need water and light. Air plants require watering once a week, but other varieties can survive for two weeks without being watered. As for their light requirement, you just have to keep them out of direct sunlight.
- Hoya
Also known as wax plant or porcelain flower, hoyas are known for the waxy appearance of their flowers or leaves. They are sensitive to too much water, so make sure to use a well-draining soil mix. They also require fertilizers throughout spring and summer.
- Boston Fern
Known for its sword-shaped, blue-green fronds with tiny leaflets, the Boston fern is a popular houseplant found in many tropical areas around the world. It grows best in bright, indirect light on organically rich, loamy soil. You may need to water it frequently as it likes soil that is slightly moist.
- Burro’s Tail
Also known as donkey’s tail, this attention-grabbing and fascinating succulent plant is native to Mexico and Central America. It is best to be potted in a hanging container or a tall vessel, so its stems can trail. Burro’s tail needs several hours of warm sunlight every day. If you want to keep it indoors, you would only need to water it once a month.
- Hens and Chicks
Commonly called houseleeks, hens and chicks are succulent plants that can grow indoors or outdoors in cool or hot temperatures. They got their name from their rosette shapes and their habit to produce many babies. They don’t require much fertilizer and they rarely need to be watered.
Visit a Garden Centre Today!
If you need more options for pet-friendly houseplants, don’t hesitate to visit a garden centre in Hamilton today. You’ll surely find an elegant and beautiful plant that isn’t only perfect for your home but is also safe for your furry friends.
