Dog friendly spring planting guide
Assuming the wind dies down at some point, we'll definitely be ready to get outside again. Of course, I'm hopeful we'll have a few days with no wind and non-triple-digit temperatures. Such an optimist!
Once it's nice out, it will be planting time! But as dog owners living in the desert, it seems we're pretty limited when it comes to what can survive and what won't harm our dogs. It can be complicated and time-consuming to research every pretty plant you see at the nursery, especially since there's usually more than one name for every plant.
Ever since I've moved into my current house, this has been an ongoing project, so I have personal knowledge of what a pain it is to find safe plants that are hardy and pretty. So I've decided to put together a list of plants that are listed as safe for dogs on the ASPSA website (and a couple that are not listed on the ASPSA site but are listed on other sites as safe). If you have other animals, you'll want to check their website, as some of these might not be safe for all animals.
Even those these plants are considered safe, I wouldn't consider any plant safe in large quantities. I recommend discouraging your dog from ingesting any plants. But why go through all this research? Peace of mind since dogs do live while we aren't looking.
Grass alternative
An intriguing grass alternative (currently on my wishlist) that, from what I've been told is hardy, drought-tolerant, and pet safe, doesn't require mowing, and looks pretty fantastic, is called Dwarf Carpet of the Stars or StarCarpet and can be seen at the Springs Preserve AND it qualifies for the SNWA rebate.
Ground covers, flowers, and vines
- Rosemary
- Star Jasmine can be a ground cover or vine
- Alyssum
- Marigolds (annuals)
- Snapdragons (perennials)
- Honeysuckle Fuchsia
- Orange Jubiliee
- Cape Plumbago
This post is part of a pet photographer blogging circle. To learn more about spring (or fall) in other parts, follow the links at the bottom of each post to continue with the circle.
11 Comments
Apr 24, 2022, 8:19:42 AM
Tracy Allard - This is so useful! Every pet parent should bookmark this post for quick and easy reference when at the nursery!
Apr 22, 2022, 1:17:52 PM
Nicole Hrustyk - Thank you!
Apr 22, 2022, 1:17:19 PM
Nicole Hrustyk - Oh shoot, I can't imagine finding landscaping that will survive through the snow!
Apr 22, 2022, 1:16:11 PM
Nicole Hrustyk - Thank you, Darlene!
Apr 22, 2022, 1:15:17 PM
Nicole Hrustyk - Thanks, Courtney. It is so hard to find tough plants!
Apr 22, 2022, 1:14:24 PM
Nicole Hrustyk - Elaine, these are all on my wishlist. haha
Apr 22, 2022, 10:58:07 AM
Elaine - Well, I just spent some time reading about Star Carpet, and loving it. Thanks for that link! Crepe Myrtle is an all time favorite of mine, and that is on my wish list. Lovely photos.
Apr 22, 2022, 10:14:15 AM
Courtney Bryson - Great tips! We've been trying to work on our back yard this year so we have pretty places to enjoy the outdoors with the dogs - finding safe & hardy plants is tough!
Apr 22, 2022, 9:42:15 AM
Darlene - These portraits are stunning, Nicole! If I had to pick a favorite, that first one with the pops of color and those AMAZING ears!!! Thanks for sharing the planting guide - great tips and info!
Apr 22, 2022, 9:05:03 AM
Cahlean - A great primer for getting a dog friendly garden going! Here in MN there's a whole different zone to plan for which means less options that will make it through the winter. And you've had a ton of wind too? Can't wait until it tames either!
Apr 22, 2022, 4:02:04 AM
Jessica - What a big list! Often it’s what plants we can’t plant or keep around our pets, but knowing what is A-OK is super helpful!