Pet-Safe Plants in the Pacific Northwest: Enjoy Nature with Peace of Mind
The Pacific Northwest offers a wealth of outdoor beauty, making it an ideal place for pet owners to explore with their furry companions. However, it’s important to be aware of the plants that are safe for our pets to ensure their well-being while enjoying the great outdoors. In this blog post, we’ll discuss a selection of pet-safe outdoor plants that thrive in the Pacific Northwest, allowing you to create a safe and beautiful environment for both you and your pets.
1. Lavender (Lavendula)
Lavender is a beloved plant known for its fragrant blooms and calming properties. The good news is that it’s also safe for pets! Lavender not only adds beauty to your outdoor space but can also provide a calming aroma. Whether in a garden bed or a pot, lavender is a versatile plant that thrives in the Pacific Northwest climate.
2. Oregon Grape (Mahona aquifolium)
Native to the Pacific Northwest, Oregon Grape is a hardy evergreen shrub that is both pet-friendly and visually appealing. Its yellow flowers and blue berries provide year-round interest, while its spiky leaves add texture to your outdoor space. This plant is perfect for creating natural boundaries or as an ornamental addition to your garden.
3. Salal (Gaultheria shallon)
Salal, also know as lemon-leaf or Shallon, is a versatile plant that thrives in the coastal regions of the Pacific Northwest. This native evergreen shrub features glossy, leathery leaves and produces edible berries loved by wildlife. It’s non-toxic to pets and can be used as ground cover or in borders, adding greenery to your outdoor spaces.
4. Sword Fern (Polystichum munitum)
A staple of the Pacific Northwest landscape, the Sword Fern is a pre-safe plant that brings lushness and texture to any outdoor setting. Its long, arching fronds create a beautiful backdrop for gardens and provide shade for pets to relax under. The Sword Fern is easy to maintain and can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, making it a perfect fit for the Pacific Northwest.
5. Coral Bells (Heuchera)
The leaves of the Coral Bell form a lovely mound of foliage and you can find them in an assortment of colors. All parts of this plant are non-toxic which make the Coral Bell a beautiful addition to your Pacific Northwest landscaping.
As pet owners, it’s important to strike a balance between enjoying the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest and ensuring the safety of our furry friends. By incorporating these pet-safe outdoor plants into your landscape, you can create a vibrant environment where both you and your pets can thrive. So go ahead, embrace nature, and explore the wonders of the Pacific Northwest with peace of mind.
