After what seemed like winter would never end, we've finally made it to spring. March 20, 2025, at 5:01 a.m., to be exact. Those long, cold days are finally behind us in New Jersey with signs of the weather warming popping up all around us.
It also signals that New Jersey's growing season has arrived. From the start of spring to the early days of fall, The Garden State truly lives up to its name during the warmer months up and down the state.
So many homeowners and businesses in the state take pride in beautifying their landscapes this time of year. Some choose to stick with native plants, while others go for things not typically found around the state naturally.
A for the types of plants to choose from, it mostly comes down to personal taste. But if you're a pet owner, there are some flowers you might want to pay extra attention to.
Not all are safe
That's not to say we shouldn't grow these, as many of these flowers are found all over the Garden State. But rather, it's more of a heads up when it comes to flowers that can be toxic to our furry friends.
If you're looking to plant around your house, here are a few options you might want to keep your pet from getting too comfortable around. It's not that these plants won't make the environment nicer, it's just a matter of being smart with how to place them.
Associated Press file
Toxic Flowers to Keep Away From Your Pets
Though pretty, these flowers are prone to cause issues with dogs and cats, so if you're thinking about gifting one of these to your special someone, make sure you don't let the animals get to them!
Gallery Credit: Maria Danise
cat dog flowers
Again, there's nothing wrong with planting any of these if you have pets. Just be aware and try to keep your pet from consuming, chewing, or digging up any of these plants.
The safest option, of course, is to avoid planting anything that might be toxic to your pet in the first place. And if that's your preferred direction, then these flowers might be a safer bet for you.
Much like the ones highlighted above, these will beautify your landscape just as much while also remaining safer for our four-legged friends.
Non-Toxic Flowers That Are Safe For Pets
Contrary to our list of unsafe flowers for pets like cats and dogs, here are some flowers for your sweetheart that are a safe bet for the animals as well!
Gallery Credit: Maria Danise
The 2025 Philadelphia Flower Show
This year's theme of the 196th Annual Philadelphia Flower Show, presented by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, is, “Gardens of Tomorrow.”
Gallery Credit: Jen Ursillo
The above post reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5 Sunday morning host & content contributor Mike Brant. Any opinions expressed are his own.
