Seasonal Pet Garden Prep Guide

Each season brings new joys and new hazards for pet-owning gardeners. This comprehensive guide walks you through what to do (and watch out for) throughout the year to keep both your garden and your pets thriving.

🌸 Spring: New Growth, New Hazards

Garden Tasks

• Clean up winter debris and refresh mulch
• Start seeds indoors for transplanting
• Prune dormant plants before new growth
• Divide and relocate perennials

Pet Safety Focus

• Bulb toxicity: Tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths are toxic to pets. Use barriers or plant in elevated areas.
• Fertilizer hazards: Many spring fertilizers are attractive to dogs but dangerous. Use pet-safe alternatives.
• Slug bait danger: Metaldehyde-based baits are extremely toxic. Use pet-safe iron phosphate versions.
• Cocoa mulch: Smells like chocolate and is just as dangerous for dogs. Use cedar or pine instead.

☀️ Summer: Peak Growing Season

Garden Tasks

• Water consistently, especially containers
• Harvest herbs and vegetables regularly
• Deadhead flowers to encourage blooming
• Monitor for pests and diseases

Pet Safety Focus

• Heat protection: Ensure shaded areas for pets in outdoor spaces.
• Standing water: Empty saucers to prevent mosquitoes and discourage pet drinking.
• Pesticide awareness: Never spray when pets are present. Use only pet-safe products.
• Compost caution: Decomposing organic matter can contain toxins. Keep pets away from bins.

🍂 Fall: Preparation Time

Garden Tasks

• Plant spring-blooming bulbs
• Clean and store garden tools
• Bring tender plants indoors
• Add compost to garden beds

Pet Safety Focus

• Mushroom season: Wild mushrooms can be deadly. Remove any that appear in your space.
• Antifreeze danger: Sweet-tasting but deadly. Clean any spills immediately.
• Fallen fruit: Fermenting apples and other fruit can cause alcohol poisoning.
• Plant storage: Keep stored bulbs and seeds away from curious pets.

❄️ Winter: Rest and Plan

Garden Tasks

• Plan next year’s garden
• Order seeds and supplies
• Maintain indoor plants and herbs
• Start winter sowing for hardy plants

Pet Safety Focus

• Ice melt products: Many contain chemicals harmful to pet paws. Use pet-safe alternatives.
• Holiday plants: Poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly are toxic. Use artificial or keep well out of reach.
• Indoor plant moves: Plants brought inside may drop leaves pets might eat. Monitor closely.
• Space heaters: Keep away from plants AND pets to prevent burns.

“A pet-safe garden isn’t built in a day—it’s maintained through every season with awareness and care.”

Year-Round Pet Safety Checklist

• Keep a list of toxic plants and check before purchasing
• Store all gardening chemicals in locked cabinets
• Supervise pets in unfamiliar outdoor areas
• Know your vet’s number and nearest emergency clinic
• Keep ASPCA Poison Control number handy: (888) 426-4435

For a complete list of pet-safe and toxic plants, visit our Pet Safety Guide. With awareness and planning, every season can be safe and enjoyable for the whole family—furry members included.