House Gardening with Care

House gardening has been taking a lot of our interests nowadays. Everyone is becoming a fan of gardening and of the benefits it may give us. However, you also have to watch out for things that may hurt or harm you and your family.

There are house plants you might have in your garden that you are not aware of their risks and dangers. Here are some plants you have to watch out for and handle with utmost care:

• Philodendrons. Philodendrons are generally easier to take care of since it does not need a lot of maintenance. However, even though they are very easy to handle, they also have a toxin that is called calcium oxalate. Found in their leaves, these toxins may cause inflammations in the mouth and throat of anyone who ingest them accidentally.
• Caladium. This plant belongs to the same family of philodendrons. Also called elephant ears, caladium appears beautiful, but also contains calcium oxalate. If ingested, it can irritate the mucus membrane in the mouth and throat. Other symptoms of ingestion are vomiting, diarrhea and nausea.
• English ivy. This is a climbing plant that can help the air inside your house circulate better. However, be careful of saponins, poisonous substances that may irritate your pet or even your child.
• Hydrangea. Hydrangeas are able to bloom during spring to autumn. Be careful of handling this since it contains a compound that resembles cyanide.
• Jerusalem cherry. Jerusalem cherry may look good in your house because of its thin leaves and berries, but you have to make sure that it is handled properly. If ingested, it can cause an upset stomach.
• Azaleas. Azaleas are usually used in landscaping. House gardening enthusiasts love how this flower shrub instantly beautifies a garden. Beware, however, of grayantoxins that can harm anyone who ingests it in large amounts. Symptoms include diarrhea and vomiting. Worse cases could result to coma and even death.
• Easter lily. Easter lilies are popular during the Easter holidays, and can also be kept in your house garden. However, it is best to avoid getting this plant since it can cause harm to pets, more specifically to cats. Ingestion can lead to death caused by kidney failure.