I'm in the midst of starting a butterfly and hummingbird garden, but with young kids at home, I'm worried about which plants might be toxic if they decide to nibble on them. I've been looking into a few flowering plants and found that foxglove is quite toxic, much to my dismay. I also came across information that hydrangeas are dangerous too, which surprised me. I want to be informed about which plants are safe even if a little is eaten and which ones I should completely steer clear of to keep my kids safe.
3 Answers
Most toxic plants have a bitter taste, which discourages munching. However, bright, colorful berries can be tempting for little ones but may not be safe. It’s key to know your local region's plants to determine the best candidates for a safe garden. For context, I’m in Zone 7a with full sun and loamy soil, which influences what I can grow!
Most toxic plants are actually pretty bitter, so if a kid takes a bite, they’re more likely to spit it out without any harm. I like to plant things like lemon verbena or lemongrass that smell good and are safe, while avoiding anything resembling edible plants with poisonous berries. Keeping a clear path in the garden can help too! My kids have grown up around plants and are careful; maybe it’s different if other kids are playing around.
If you’re seriously worried, it might be good to check with experts for specifics on what’s safe in terms of quantity. Instead of searching for a full list of toxic plants, start with what you want to grow and see if any are risky. Definitely steer clear of poison ivy, giant hogweed, and be careful with mango sap. Also, remember to check for ticks!
Sounds like a great setup! Make sure to choose well from the native species around your area for safe options!