Decorating with greenery the pet-safe way

by Allan Wulff, MBA. Ph.D. 08/14/2022

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
Author

Allan Wulff, MBA. Ph.D.

Hello and thank you for visiting! Selling or buying real estate is very serious business! I provide extraordinary results! Prior to real estate I was President/CEO of a number of area technology companies, Vice-Chairman of the INOVA Hospital Association and have been a long time member of the Association for Corporate Growth. With a broker’s training and experience, you get more than just a realtor agent. My negotiating skills and astute problem solving capabilities, honed by executive experience, have proved extremely effective for my clients in achieving their dreams and real estate goals in this current complex and fast paced market. As a long time Northern Virginia resident my experience will benefit you whether you are buying a home or selling a home or are a returning client checking out the many homeowner resources my associates and I offer. Buying a home? I look forward to helping you select the home of your dreams by taking time to listen to your needs and desires. Selling a home? My real estate expertise and many effective marketing programs will give you the exposure and edge you need to sell your home quickly for top dollar. Testimonials. I appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve you and hope you take advantage of the valuable resources I provide. Come back to visit often! I consider this community an excellent place to reside and would love to share with you my enthusiasm for the many neighborhoods in the area. I pride myself on providing unparalleled service and look forward to developing a long-term relationship with you. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss how I can best assist you with your real estate goals. Sincerely, Allan Wulff