For some pet owners, hanging plants in baskets is not always enough to keep animals safe from eating them. Trailing plants such as epipremnum aureum and philodendron are beautiful and easy to care for, but toxic to cats and dogs if their vines hang down to nibbling height. Luckily, there are options for non-toxic trailing plants you can grow at home without worrying about fallen leaves or hanging vines making your animals sick. Here are some suggestions to consider:
Hoyas are also called wax plants because of their thick, glossy leaves. There are dozens of species of hoya and most of them have trailing or climbing growth patterns. The hoya carnosa is the most commonly grown as a houseplant, both in its regular form and the various multi-colored cultivars. These vines are vigorous growers and well-loved for their ease of care and resistance to pests. They're also completely safe for pets, so you can let them trail from their planters without fear of making your animals sick.
String of hearts is a unique trailing plant perfect for pet owners. As the name suggests, this plant has heart-shaped leaves growing on delicate vines. While it won't climb on its own, it makes a great plant to train up onto a decorative trellis. Otherwise, the plant grows best when allowed to hang down from its container. String of hearts have care needs similar to succulents: water infrequently and provide plenty of bright light.
The peperomia genus contains a wide variety of favorite houseplants, all of which are safe for pets. While most have an upright or bushy growth habit, the peperomia hope is a vibrant trailing plant you can hang from baskets or allow to cascade over a shelf. Peperomia like moist soil but are very prone to root rot. Therefore, it's essential to water carefully and not plant them in too large a container. Peperomia hope's small, rich green leaves make a cheerful and easy-growing addition to your home without putting your pets at risk.
Judy Gibbons is a highly accomplished Realtor licensed in Illinois, Michigan, and Florida. With an impressive list of accolades and a wealth of experience, she has become a prominent figure in the Chicagoland real estate industry.
Judy Gibbons Group has expanded to include Realtors Muge Parmaksiz, Nico Gilbert and Peter Gibbons. Together they have over 50 years of experience in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Designations/Licenses: Certified Distressed Property Expert, Broker, GREEN
Town Coverage: Chicago, Illinois, Arlington Heights, Illinois, Barrington, Illinois, North Barrington, Illinois
