Identify your plants by their botanical (scientific) names. Common names can be confusing, and telling us “big leaves with green spots” doesn’t give us much to go on in an emergency. We recommend mapping it out: create a map of your yard noting the name and location of each plant.

If you can’t identify a plant, take a cutting and/or a photo to your local garden store for help. Plant identification apps are useful, as well, but it’s always good to get professional verification. 

Some plants use juice, sap, or thorns to defend their territory, which can lead to skin rashes or irritation. These reactions, known as dermatitis, can range from a minor “itchy” annoyance to a painful experience.

• Always wear pants, long sleeves, and gloves to avoid skin reactions.
• If you brush up against something irritating, wash the area with soap and water as soon as possible to remove any lingering oils or sap.
• Myth Busting: You can’t catch a poison ivy rash from someone else. The reaction is caused by the plant’s oil– once that oil is dry or washed off, it cannot be spread to another person.

Spring planting is the perfect opportunity to be intentional about what you grow. If you’re designing a family- or pet-friendly space, consider choosing nontoxic plants like:

• Marigold
• Sunflower
• Begonia
• Forsythia
• Fuchsia
• Impatiens
• Ferns
• Dogwood
• Violets
• Camellia
• Herbs: basil, rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley

Children can choke on plants, so it’s important to keep a close watch no matter the toxicity.