Spring is when the garden centers fill with shoppers dreaming of a beautiful yard. But before you put down money for plants, mulch, fertilizer and more, learn the basics on how to have that beautiful yard without worrying about your pet. Here are some tips to help you plan.
Consider separate primary spaces for pets and people
The pet area can be very basic with a patch of lawn and some pet-safe plants, or you can add to your dog’s enjoyment with a digging zone and even agility gear and toys. For cats, consider installing a catio – a secure, screened-in area where your pet can enjoy being outdoors without the risk of getting out of your yard. Keep supplies handy for picking up waste promptly. This will reduce odors and bugs – as well as eliminate the temptation some dogs have to sample poop.
Make people spaces and problem areas invitation-only
Cats can enjoy this area with a feline harness and leash, and dogs can be trained to make this area a no-potty zone. Fence off other problematic areas in your yard as well, such as swimming pools and compost piles, and keep spas and children’s sand boxes covered when not in use.
Set your pets up for success – and safety
When choosing plants, steer clear of azaleas, lilies, tulips, sago palms, oleander and other toxic vegetation. Instead, plant sunflowers, marigolds or pet-friendly grass varieties. Using containers, especially hanging ones, will make plants more difficult for pets to access. For potted plants, cover the soil with rock to discourage cats – yours and others – from using planters as litter boxes.
Go non-toxic with pest- and weed-control products
Prioritize integrated pest management techniques, such as companion planting, to discourage garden pests. Pull individual weeds by hand and use pet-safe mulches or use sheets of cardboard to remove larger areas of unwanted plants instead of spraying herbicides. When spraying for insects, including fleas and ticks, use pet-safe products, follow label instructions to the letter and keep pets out of the area until completely dry.
Keep gardening supplies and tools away from pets
Garden products such as fertilizers, soil amendments and pesticides should be kept where your pet can’t reach them. Put clasps on cabinets and keep the doors to garages or storage areas closed. Put pets inside when using power equipment. Even if your pet steers clear of your lawn mower or string trimming, they’re not safe from the potential of blown or hurled debris if they’re in the area.
Now that you know what not to do, jump on the internet and search for “pet friendly gardens” to get some ideas on both hardscape and landscape, then get planting. You and your pets will love your new yard!