Five Garden Flowers That Are
Safe For Dogs
Now that summer has burst upon the scene, you may be considering planting some flowers around your new home to make your yard bright and colorful. Whether you have a prolific green thumb or are just looking to add a couple small areas of perennials to your yard, a little bit of careful planning can make your flower beds bloom successfully and turn your yard into a beautiful, outdoor retreat in the summertime. While many gardeners make sure to pay attention to the sunlight and watering recommendations on the back of the plant tag to ensure growing success, one further guide should be checked if you have a dog at home.
Unless you will be planting flowers in a part of your yard that will be cordoned off from your dog, it is best to make plant choices that will be non-toxic for your pet. While there are lots of flowers you can safely plant around your yard and still keep your dog safe, here five of our favorites that will do well in Rochester’s climate.
1. Gerbera Daisies
Known for the bright pops of bold color that they add to any garden or floral arrangement, Gerbera Daisies are an excellent, non-toxic choice to plant. They grow in indirect sunlight well and reach a height of 8 to 12 inches – making them ideal for the back of your flowerbed, where they will receive some shade and can be seen overtop the lower flowers in front.
2. Roses
Roses are an annual that can make a beautiful garden all on their own. With the almost unlimited variety of colors and sizes, they are a lovely addition to consider for a pet-friendly garden. Roses need more sun than Gerbera Daisies and a thick coat of mulch on the ground to grow.
3. Garden Marigolds
Some varieties of marigolds are toxic to pets, but Garden Marigolds are a safe, non-toxic option to consider. With their distinctive golden color and strong aroma, known to keep bugs away, Garden Marigolds are the perfect flower to keep your garden growing well while keeping your dogs safe and healthy. Since they love the sun and do well in drier areas, don’t be afraid to put them on that Southwest corner where nothing else wants to grow.
4. Zinnias
Zinnias come in an array of colors that will add a bit of fun and whimsy to your new backyard. They can be planted in small groupings around the flowerbed to fill out over the summer and keep your garden looking lively and bright all season long. Zinnias also love full sun.
5. Petunias
The staple of the perennial gardening world, petunias, are a must-have in any flowerbed or potted arrangement. From doubles, to minis, to wave petunias, there is a never-ending array of variety and color that can be found in this beautiful flower. If you are looking for a low-maintenance flower that is safe for your dog and likely only needs watering once a week, petunias are just the flower for you.
As you start to plant flowers at your new home, there is no need to shy away from color and variety for the sake of your pet. There are many options available that are non-toxic to dogs and will look great in your garden as well. While we’ve only listed five of our favorites, from here in Rochester, don’t be afraid to explore many more options that are available as well.
Contact Us
Faber Builders Corporate Office
3240 Chili Avenue Rochester NY, 14624
Phone: (585) 889-4840
Fax: (585) 889-4190
