Finding the right plants for your home can be tricky if you’re a pet owner. You want to make sure that your cat or dog is safe and not exposed to toxic foliage. You can use plenty of pet-friendly houseplants to decorate without danger to your pets. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular options available.
Pet-Friendly Houseplants: Phalaenopsis Orchid
The Phalaenopsis orchid is a great choice. Not only is this plant beautiful and easy to maintain, but it’s also pet-friendly. The stunning flowers have become increasingly popular over the last few years thanks to their attractive appearance and low-maintenance requirements.
Native to tropical climates in Southeast Asia, the Phalaenopsis orchid thrives indoors in bright indirect sunlight, with temperatures ranging from 60°F-85°F. Don’t overwater this plant; water once a week during the growing season (spring through fall) and every two weeks during winter when the plant isn’t actively growing. Take care not to place it in direct sunlight, as this can burn its delicate leaves.
Spider Plants are Pet-Friendly Houseplants
The Spider Plant is an easy-to-care-for indoor plant popular with beginning gardeners thanks to its low maintenance requirements and fast growth. It’s non-toxic to cats and dogs and can fill a space with attractive foliage. If you enjoy spider plants and have pets, display them in hanging baskets; this will keep cats from playing with their draping leaves.
Ponytail Palm
If you’re looking for something more exotic, consider the ponytail palm. Native to Mexico and the southern United States, this succulent plant grows in the form of a bulbous trunk with long arching green leaves that look like a ponytail. These trees need bright, indirect light and occasional water. While a ponytail palm can grow over 10 feet tall outdoors, inside, they rarely get above four feet. They are easy to care for and have attractive leaves with a draping growth habit.
Boston Fern
The Boston fern, known as Nephrolepis exaltata, is an attractive houseplant. This lush green fern is a classic favorite among homeowners and gardeners because it adds a luxurious look to any home. This plant is beautiful to look at, but it’s also straightforward to care for and safe around pets.
Boston ferns thrive in bright indirect light and love humidity. To keep the soil moist, you’ll want to water regularly but not excessively; too much water can lead to root rot. When your plant is actively growing in the summer months, feed it every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer for the best results.
With these pet-friendly houseplants, you won’t have to worry about exposing your four-legged family members to toxic decor. Enjoy greenery in your home without putting your pets at risk.
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