People have indoor gardens for a number of reasons, and one of those reasons is cold winter weather. When the frost hits, many people want to bring the plants indoors, or start a garden in the house. While this is a noble endeavor, it must be done with caution when there are dogs involved. Luckily, there is an indoor gardening method that is perfect when you live with a four-legged canine companion.
Plan the Plants
Dogs react to plants differently than humans, and having safe plants indoors is important in case of accidental ingestion. You must plan the types of plants that will adorn the garden, making sure they will not harm the animal if they are accidentally ingested. Peppermint, for example, is a terrific plant for this purpose. It does well in sun or shade, and it helps ease a dog’s upset stomach. Garlic is another safe plant for a dog, though it will make him or her ill if eaten in large quantities. Plant rosemary and grass indoors to round out the dog-friendly garden.
Indoor Garden Basics
Many people miss an important part of making space for an indoor garden: the wall. Look up to find space for plants. Use containers that can attach to the wall, such as canning jars attached to boards, to increase garden space. Consider how many plants will be planted, and if the dog will be left alone with the plants. High-energy dogs should be watched around the garden to avoid messes and destruction, while smaller dogs may need plants raised above a certain height to avoid getting into trouble. Make sure the dog and the garden will be able to exist harmoniously for a successful indoor living situation.
Build the Perfect Garden
After you’ve found the perfect dog-safe plants and gathered the materials, follow the specific instructions for each plant to start the garden. Some seeds need to be planted in a certain manner, while others need to have specific care before being planted. Some plants need direct sun while others are great in the shade. Consider whether the plants will be moved outdoors in the summer, or if the garden will be indoors year-round. All these considerations depend on a number of variables, but the most important variable is the safety of the dog. Avoid accidents by avoiding plants that could harm the dog if they were to be accidentally ingested.
Author: Jenny Holt
Jennifer Holt is a freelance writer and mother of two, who loves nothing more than to play, “where has the cat hidden itself now.”