Gardening can be relaxing and a lot of fun, yet can be quite frustrating when you have pets. Dogs are especially notorious for reeking havoc in gardens. You can help combat this problem by making your garden as pet friendly as possible. Gardening with your best four legged friend by your side can really make for a wonderful and relaxing day. This article will give you some great tips about making your garden into an environment that you and your dog can both enjoy. Read on to discover some great ideas.
As a pet owner your dogs safety is probably one of your top concerns. There are numerous plants that although they are beautiful, are extremely poisonous to dogs. Foxglove, rhododendrons, oleanders and larkspurs are all common plants found in gardens that can be deadly to your dog. Before you choose the plants for your garden, do a little research to make sure that what you are planting is safe for your pet. Taking the time to do this can save you the heartache of discovering poisonous plants after it is too late.
Another element that can cause harm to your dog is using too many pesticides and insecticides. Insects and wild animals can reek almost as much havoc as a dog can in your garden. Luckily, there are safe non-toxic ways to treat your garden. A solution of 1 percent dish washing soap sprayed on your plants is a natural and effective way to prevent insects from taking hold.
Diluted vinegar is a great way to kill weeds and slugs, while sprinkling talcum powder in your flowerbeds will discourage wild animals from snacking on your plants. Rosemary deters mosquitoes, while borage will keep worms from crawling inside of your tomatoes. A chemical free garden makes a much safer setting for not only your pet, but your entire family and the environment as well.
There is not much a dog enjoys more than rolling on the grass or laying in the shade on a nice day. Make sure to leave enough lawn space for your dog to freely run around and play. Utilizing trees to make shady areas will give a place for your dog to relax and cool off. The more space and shade you give your dog, the less likely they will be to romp through your flower beds. Making clearly designated paths through your garden will also help to keep your four legged friend from ripping up the flower beds. If your pooch just can’t stay away from your plants you can always put up low fencing along your flower beds to keep them out.
For those who own a dog they will be the first to admit that their pooch is a member of the family. With a little patience and the proper planning, gardening with your dog by your side can be an enjoyable time. Apply the advice from this article to help turn your garden into a safe and pet friendly environment.