Let's talk pet-safe plants! Here at POP we are all about all huge pet people (we think most plant people are!), but it can be confusing to figure out which plants are totally pet-friendly.
Most pets are not interested in plants at all, so buying 100% pet-safe plants may not be necessary for you, but if you have a cheeky fur baby who likes to chew on your plants, it is important to know which plants are safe to keep around them! We have curated a list of plants below which are non-toxic to your beloved, beautiful pets.
Boston Fern
Probably the most popular fern variety, the Boston is a highly sought after indoor plant. They are one of those plants which immediately transforms the vibe of a room - taking you from concrete jungle to actual jungle in an instant.
CARE: Keep this plant in bright, indirect light. Boston ferns need to be kept away from air conditioners and heater draughts. The root ball needs to stay moist at all times, misting your ferns regularly is also a good idea. The more humidity you can provide this fern, the better.
Maidenhair Fern
Maidenhairs are famously stunning, but also famously bratty. These babies can be divas, but once you get the hang of them, these plants are showstoppers: delicate and demure.
CARE: The easiest way to keep a maidenhair happy is to keep it in bright, indirect light or direct morning sun, and to keep it moist at all times. You can achieve this easily by keeping your maidenhair in a self-watering pot or a pot with a drip tray beneath it. As long as the self-watering pot, or drip tray, has water in it for the plant to pull up through the roots, then you should not have to water daily. Avoid getting water on the foliage of the maidenhair when you water, aim for soil or bottom water.
Calatheas
Calatheas are some of our most popular plants at POP and it is not hard to see why. This family of plants is notorious for striking, patterned foliage that is a feat of nature.
CARE: Calatheas prefer bright, indirect light. They can tolerate lower light but will not thrive, keep out of direct sunlight to avoid damaging the delicate foliage. Water calatheas before the soil has completely dried out; when the top 1/2 inch or so is dry. Calatheas can be sensitive to minerals in tap water such as chlorine and fluoride, so if you are following care instructions and still struggling with brown tips and a sad plant, try watering with rainwater or distilled water.
Peperomia
Peperomia plants can come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and colours - but they are all easy care and low maintenance! Perfect for the beginner plant parent.
CARE: Keep your peperomia in bright, indirect light. Water the soil when dry - if you are unsure, it is better to underwater rather than overwater a peperomia (due to their succulent leaves). Make sure your peperomia is in well-draining soil.
Kentia Palm
The fool-proof large, tropical indoor plant that everyone should have. Kentia's are native to Australia and were one of the first palms popularised for indoor keeping by Queen Victoria who boasted them in all of her palaces.
CARE: Kentias will tolerate lower light spaces, but will thrive in medium to bright indirect light. Water once weekly in summer and spring, and pull back a bit in winter.
Of course, to add an extra layer of protection for both your fur and plant babies, elevating your plants may be worthwhile. Plant stands, shelves and hanging pots can be your best friend when it comes to keeping non-pet-safe plants in your home. Check out our range of stunning plant accessories in-store - our staff are always happy to help you style your dream space!