Paws and Leaves: Earth Omi Sol's Guide to Keeping Plants Safe from Curious Kids and Pets

Welcome back to our Earth Omi Sol blog! It's Humble and Ninah here, ready to dive into a topic that's close to many of your hearts (and ours too): keeping your beloved plants safe from the inquisitive hands of little ones and the playful paws of pets. We all know that a home filled with plants is a home filled with life, but sometimes that life can get a bit too... enthusiastic about our green friends. So, let's talk about some natural and practical ways to maintain harmony between your plants and your family members, both human and furry.

1. Citrus Peel Deterrent:

   - What to do: Scatter lemon or orange peels around your plant pots.

   - Why it works: Most pets, especially cats, find citrus scents off-putting.

   - Our tip: Refresh the peels regularly to keep the scent strong.

2. 
Creative Barriers:

   - What to do: Use decorative cages or clear domes to cover smaller plants.

   - Why it works: It physically blocks access while still displaying your plants' beauty.

   - Our tip: Turn these barriers into a design statement in your home.

3.  
DIY Repellent Spray:

   - What to do: Mix water with a bit of vinegar or pet-safe essential oils and spray around your plants.

   - Why it works: The smell is unpleasant to pets but harmless.

   - Our tip: Avoid spraying directly on the leaves, as it can cause damage.

4.  
Distraction is Key:

   - What to do: Offer alternative plants or toys for kids and pets.

   - Why it works: It redirects their attention and energy.

   - Our tip: For cats, try a catnip plant or a new scratching post.

5. 
Elevating Plants:

   - What to do: Use tall stands, shelves, or hanging planters.

   - Why it works: It puts plants out of easy reach.

   - Our tip: This also adds a new dimension to your plant displays.

6. 
Consistency in Training:

   - What to do: Teach pets and kids that plants are not for playing or eating.

   - Why it works: Repetition and consistency help set clear boundaries.

   - Our tip: Be patient and persistent, especially with younger pets and children.

7. 
Unpleasant Textures:

   - What to do: Place aluminum foil or double-sided tape around your plants.

   - Why it works: Cats and some dogs dislike walking on these textures.

   - Our tip: This is particularly effective for potted plants on the floor. *We do not recommend this method if your cat isn't actually a kitten-in-training. This method could scare older cats).

At Earth Omi Sol, we understand that every family is unique, and so is every solution. While these tips are a great starting point, you might find that a combination or a slight tweak works best for your home.

We're always here to help you navigate these green challenges. Whether you need advice on plant care or pet-friendly plant recommendations, don't hesitate to reach out or drop by our shop. Let's keep those tails wagging and the plants thriving!

Happy planting! 🍃