UK gardeners urged to get rid of 3 plants dangerous to children

Summer has well and truly arrived; the schools are out, the UK has been blessed with sporadic heatwaves, and your garden is hopefully in full bloom. The more temperate weather brings with it the perfect opportunity to get bored little ones out in the garden, whether they're planting sunflowers and digging for worms, kicking a ball about, or simply enjoying the fresh air.

But with the lure of outdoor pursuits comes a responsibility to keep kids safe in your garden, and there's a surprising number of common plants and flowers that pose a risk to curious young minds. Zara O’Hare, design expert at Land of Rugs, has shared her top practical tips to help you turn your garden into a safe, kid-friendly paradise this summer.

“Children explore the world with their mouths,” O’Hare told New Theory Magazine. “What looks lovely to us might look like a snack to them.”

Foxgloves, lilies, and holly berries can be dangerous if eaten and can cause serious health problems for humans and animals - even if only a small amount is ingested. Safer alternatives include marigolds, sunflowers, cornflowers, and snapdragons. 

Another tip from O'Hare is to lock up tools and toxins. She continues: "Too many garden accidents happen simply because sharp tools or toxic products are left lying around." Fertilisers, weed killers, and anything with a blade or warning label should be locked out of harm's way or stored up high.

Fences are another key component of a safe garden. O’Hare recommends going for fencing that’s at least four feet high with vertical slats to prevent climbing and keep young adventurers where they belong, remembering to check for gaps or weak spots

“Always check for gaps or weak spots,” she adds. “If a toddler can squeeze through it or climb over it, they will.”

She also urges parents to consider using rubber mulch or mats to guard against falls, especially in gardens with slides or climbing frames.

Another critically important point made by O'Hare is to cover or remove water hazards such as ornamental ponds and birdbaths; even standing water can pose a risk. “Even shallow water can be dangerous,” O’Hare stresses. “It only takes a second for an accident to happen.”

A way around such hazards it to dedicate a part of your garden for children to play in. A sandpit, toys, or sports equipment will keep them entertained in their own safe space, meaning kids will be entertained and adults can - hopefully - relax.

“A garden designed with kids in mind lets them explore and learn while staying safe,” says O’Hare. “It becomes their very own outdoor classroom and sensory playground.”