Garden Safely with Pennsylvania’s Poison Centers
Rep. Jennifer M. O'Mara June 10, 2024 | 12:06 PM
I'm pleased to partner with Pennsylvania’s Poison Centers to share some spring and summer garden safety tips.
About the Pennsylvania’s Poison Control Centers 1 (800) 222-1222
- Pennsylvania’s Poison Control Centers provide free and 24/7 help for all your questions concerning chemicals, medicines, plants, stings, and more.
- When you call for help, you will instantly be connected to a nurse or pharmacist with specialized training. Translators are also available for callers who do not speak English.
- This service is available for people of all ages, and no question is too small.
Our gardens are spaces that bring us joy and peace. There is nothing like being able to see the beauty of nature up close. However, plant exposures are also one of the most common calls that Pennsylvania’s Poison Centers receive about kids under the age of 6. Here is some information that can keep everyone who visits your garden safe!
Knowing your plants is key. The Poison Control Center’s top garden safety tip is to make sure you know the names of the plants that are in and around your home.
When you buy a new plant, make a note of the name listed on its tag. Consider making a list on your phone. There are many apps available that help identify plants. While they may be useful, they do not always accurately identify plants that are poisonous.
If there are any plants in your garden that you can’t identify, bring a photo or a few pieces of the plant to your local nursery so they can help. Ask for both their scientific and common names.
Take special care around plants that are poisonous, especially if you have small kids. Plants to be aware of include:
- Rhododendron, Foxglove, Jerusalem Cherry, Lilly-of-the-Valley, and Hydrangea
- If eaten, symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache. More serious effects include changes in heart rate and blood pressure.
- Calla Lily, Elephant’s Ear, Mother-in-Law’s Tongue or Snake Plant, or Philodendron
- These plants can irritate the mouth if eaten. A cool drink, a popsicle, apple sauce or yogurt can provide relief. If your child has swelling in the lips or tongue, or if they start drooling excessively and have trouble catching their breath, go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
- Carnation, Daffodil, Geranium, and Pokeweed
- These plants can irritate the stomach, causing cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, but symptoms typically last only a few hours.
- Chrysanthemum, Marigold, and Poinsettia
- These flowers can cause irritation if they touch your skin. This can be treated by washing the area with soap and rinsing with warm water.
Don’t feel a need to second guess! If anyone in your home might have been exposed to a poisonous plant, call Pennsylvania’s Poison Centers, free and 24/7, at 1-800-222-1222. For more information, visit their websites for Eastern and Western PA.