Plant Safety and Toxicity Considerations
When growing plants indoors, it’s important to keep in mind the health and safety of all family members, including pets. Most plants pose no risk, while others can be dangerous, even toxic, if ingested. Some plants aren’t toxic but can cause physical injury.
If you have pets or small children, be sure to research the potential toxicity of any plants you want to include in your indoor garden. Some may be toxic if eaten, while others can cause skin rashes from the oils or sap in the foliage. To be safe, avoid potentially toxic plants or be sure to place them well out of reach – which is easier said than done when it comes to cats who love to climb.
Some plants may not be toxic but may pose a risk of physical injury through pointy spines or sharp leaf edges. The leaves of plants such as palms or snake plants (Sanseveria), for example, have sharp edges that can give a cut like a nasty papercut or cause serious eye injury. Be sure to place these plants in locations where they won’t expose pets or people – especially children – to injury. Also place these plants well away from high traffic zones or seating areas where foliage may be at eye level. If you choose to collect succulents such as spiny cacti or euphorbias, create a display well out of reach of curious small hands.
The other thing to consider is the stability of the plant pots. Tall plants in small pots can be toppled easily by curious toddlers or pets. Always match the container to a plant’s size, using sturdy pots to avoid accidents. Make sure plant stands are firm and stable, and appropriate for the height of the plant (e.g., don’t put a tall plant on a high narrow plant stand).
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