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On the JJ Barnes Blog, get your garden ready for summer fun with these child and pet friendly non-toxic garden plants!
Summer is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to transform your garden into a vibrant, safe haven for family fun! I love creating spaces where my kids and pets can play freely without worry, and having fun outside is an essential part of our Spring and Summer family time.
In this post, with the help of Sean McCormack, Head Vet at tails.com and the experts at Soto Gardens, I’ll share a handpicked list of non-toxic garden plants that are not only beautiful but also child- and pet-friendly. Get ready to dig in and make your outdoor space a blooming paradise for everyone to enjoy!
Top 10 Non-Toxic Garden Plants
Sunflowers
Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are a cheerful, non-toxic addition to any garden, bursting with bright yellow blooms that can tower up to 10 feet tall. They’re safe for both children and pets to be around, with no harmful effects if little hands or curious snouts investigate. Their large, sunny faces also attract pollinators like bees, adding life to your summer space.
Growing Tips: Plant sunflowers in a spot with full sun (6-8 hours daily) and well-drained soil. Water regularly, letting the soil dry slightly between sessions, and deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers. Seeds can be sown directly in spring after the last frost.
Safety Note: While non-toxic, their height and fragile stems can pose a tripping or toppling risk for rambunctious kids or zooming pets. Plant them along borders or in a corner, and use sturdy stakes to support taller varieties. For kids, the edible seeds are a fun, safe snack—harvest them together as a summer activity!
Magnolia Trees
Magnolia trees (Magnolia spp.) bring elegance to your garden with their large, fragrant flowers in shades of white, pink, or purple. Non-toxic to pets and children, they’re a stunning, worry-free choice. These trees can grow 15-40 feet tall depending on the variety, offering shade and beauty without risk if petals are nibbled.
Growing Tips: Plant in well-draining, slightly acidic soil with full sun or partial shade. Water young trees consistently until established; mature ones are low-maintenance and naturally shed leaves.
Safety Note: Their height keeps blooms out of reach for small kids and pets, reducing the chance of ingestion or trampling. Fallen petals are harmless but slippery—sweep them up to prevent slips during playtime.
Japanese Maple
The Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) is a petite tree with striking, lacy foliage that shifts from bold green in summer to fiery orange and red in autumn. Growing 6-25 feet tall depending on the cultivar, it’s non-toxic to kids and pets, making it a safe, eye-catching feature.
Growing Tips: Choose a spot with partial shade and well-draining, slightly acidic soil. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hotter climates, and give it space to spread its delicate branches. Once established, it’s low-maintenance.
Safety Note: Its sturdy trunk and height deter rough play damage, and there’s no risk if leaves are mouthed by curious toddlers or dogs. Avoid overcrowding with other plants to ensure healthy growth and airflow.
Dusky Cranesbill
Dusky cranesbill (Geranium phaeum) adds a splash of color with clusters of small, five-petaled flowers in shades of deep purple, maroon, or white. Blooming from late spring to early summer, this non-toxic perennial is safe for children and pets, and its low-growing habit (up to 2 feet) attracts bees and butterflies.
Growing Tips: Plant in moist, well-drained soil with full sun or partial shade. It tolerates brief droughts, perfect for unpredictable UK weather. Cut back after flowering for a second bloom.
Safety Note: Its soft foliage and lack of thorns make it ideal for kid- and pet-friendly gardens. Place it in borders or beds where it won’t be trampled during play.
Ligularia
Ligularia (Ligularia spp.) boasts bold, daisy-like flowers in yellow, orange, or purple, paired with heart-shaped leaves. Growing up to 7 feet tall, it’s non-toxic to kids and pets, and its height keeps blooms mostly out of reach. Plus, its lovely scent adds a sensory treat to your garden.
Growing Tips: Plant in partial to full shade with rich, moist, well-draining soil. It thrives with consistent moisture but can handle short dry spells.
Safety Note: Pest- and disease-resistant, it’s a hardy choice. Position it away from heavy foot traffic to protect its lush foliage from little feet or paws.
Purple Moor Grass
Purple Moor Grass (Molinia caerulea) is an ornamental grass with upright, vivid green blades that turn golden in autumn, topped with feathery purple seed heads. Reaching 3-6 feet, it’s non-toxic and adds texture to your garden while staying safe for kids and pets.
Growing Tips: Plant in full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. It’s low-maintenance and supports wildlife like butterflies.
Safety Note: Its height and toughness make it resilient to playtime chaos. Use it in borders to define safe play zones without worry of harm if brushed against.
Buddleia
Buddleia (Buddleja davidii), or butterfly bush, is famed for its long, cone-shaped flower clusters in purple, pink, or white. Non-toxic to children and pets, it grows 6-12 feet tall, attracting butterflies and bees for a lively summer garden.
Growing Tips: Plant in full sun with well-draining soil—it’s adaptable to various soil types. Prune in late winter to encourage vigorous blooms.
Safety Note: Its height keeps flowers elevated, but fallen blooms are harmless if sniffed or tasted. Position it where kids and pets won’t tangle in its arching branches during play.
Aruncus Dioicus
Aruncus dioicus, or Goat’s Beard, features tall stems (up to 6 feet) crowned with feathery, creamy-white flower plumes in late spring. Non-toxic and honey-scented, it’s a low-maintenance gem safe for kids and pets.
Growing Tips: Plant in partial to full shade with moist soil; it tolerates sun if kept damp. Perfect for shady garden corners.
Safety Note: Its height and soft texture pose no risk, making it ideal for borders where kids and pets roam. No thorns or toxic parts to worry about!
Roses
Roses (Rosa spp.) are timeless, non-toxic beauties available in endless colors and forms—climbers, shrubs, or ground covers. Their blooms dazzle, and the edible rose hips (rich in Vitamin C) are safe for kids and pets if munched.
Growing Tips: Plant in a spot with 6+ hours of sun, well-draining soil, and good airflow. Water at the base to prevent fungal issues.
Safety Note: Thorns are the only hazard—plant away from play paths to avoid scratches or paw injuries. Train climbers high or choose thornless varieties for extra safety.
Salvia Caradonna
Salvia caradonna (Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’) dazzles with violet-purple tubular flowers spiking above dark green foliage from late spring to early summer. Growing 18-24 inches tall, it’s non-toxic and safe for kids and pets.
Growing Tips: Plant in full sun (or light shade in warm climates) with well-drained soil. Deadhead to extend blooming.
Safety Note: Its compact size and lack of thorns make it perfect for borders or beds where little ones and pets play. A vibrant, worry-free pop of color!
Conclusion
And there you have it—my go-to list of non-toxic, child- and pet-friendly plants to make your garden a summer paradise! I love watching my own little ones and our scruffy dog, Molly, running around the garden having fun without a worry in the world. There’s something so special about creating a space where everyone can play, explore, and just soak up the sunshine together. I’d love to hear which plants you’re excited to try—or if you’ve got any favorites of your own to share!
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