Page 62 • The HERALD • 7th August 2025 v THE HERALD - Your Community Magazine v DOWN THE GARDEN PATH Fred Hurst 023 8084 2191 or 07761 467217 • Grass Cutting • Garden Clearance • Hedge Cutting • Fallen Trees Cleared • Mini Digger Hire with Operator • Property Clearance • Small Demolition • Tractor Flail Cutting FULLY INSURED v FREE QUOTATIONS For all your Landscaping needs Patios, Decking, Turfing, Artificial grass and so much more. 07979 107630 Rogersrenovations2023@gmail.com All Aspects of Garden Work Undertaken • Driveways • Paving • Artificial Grass • Turfing • Decking • Fencing • Hedge Cutting • Landscaping Hythe Garden Contractors Family company established 1977 For a free quotation please call 023 8084 3556 or 023 8084 0378 • HEDGE CUTTING • FENCING • PATIOS • TURFING • GARDEN CLEARANCES & MORE For a FREE quotation please call 023 8122 4550 or 07548 355262 AUTUMN LEAF GARDEN WORKS HOW TO CREATE A Having a pet is one of life’s simple joys, and it’s no surprise that our country is a nation of pet lovers. UK Pet Food reported that the total number of pet-owning households is thought to be 17.2 million households owning pets in 2024. With so many new pets around, it’s a good idea to think about making your garden a safe and happy place for them to enjoy. British Garden Centres has put together some tips and advice on how to have a pet friendly garden. Pet friendly plants While gardens are wonderful places for pets to explore, some of our well-loved plants may look lovely but can be harmful if your pet decides to nibble on them. Common favourites like bluebells, da odils, crocuses, tulips, amaryllis, azaleas, lilies, lily of the valley, begonias, hydrangeas, and ivy all carry risks if eaten. If you love these plants, it’s best to keep them out of reach or create barriers so your pets can’t get to them. orny plants are also best avoided if your pet is the curious, adventurous type. Luckily, there are plenty of plants that won’t harm your pets. Lavender, honeysuckle, calendula, nasturtiums, sun owers, roses, fuchsias, rosemary, dill, and fennel are all safe choices that will keep your garden colourful and fragrant. Plant herbs and greens your pets can safely nibble on, such as catnip, lemongrass, valerian for cats, and some fruits and vegetables for dogs. Using pots and planters is a smart way to keep plants safe from playful paws and curious noses as they li the plants o the ground and can add a splash of colour to your outdoor space. Pest free for pets Garden pests like slugs, snails, aphids, ants, and earwigs can be a headache, but harsh chemicals aren’t the answer if you have pets, as many pesticides are toxic to animals, so it’s better to try natural alternatives. Crushed eggshells can keep slugs and snails o your plants, citrus peels can help trap ants, and a gentle spray of soapy water can take care of aphids. Look for pet friendly garden care products in store if you need to use anything stronger than organic Advice from British Garden Centres Golden retriever Continued on page 63 methods. We also advise planting pest repelling herbs like lavender, sage, and peppermint which not only help keep the creepy crawlies away but also add lovely scents to your garden. You can also encourage helpful wildlife like birds and hedgehogs with houses and food that naturally keep pests in check. Create sensory experiences in your garden Pets love to explore with all their senses, so think about adding
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