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Non toxic ground cover under acidic pines #738165

Asked March 08, 2021, 6:21 PM EST

We have tried to grow grass several times under two big pine trees in our backyard. However, we have been unsuccessful. We have two small dogs, and very little yard space in our backyard. Our dogs main bathroom area is the space under those two pines, which is basically just dirt/mud. What can we plant there, which will give us good ground cover and won’t be toxic to our fur babies?

Dakota County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hi, Thank you for writing.

Pines like soil that is a bit acidic, so dog pee (acidic) will not be a problem for them. I suggest ordinary bark mulch (not cypress), undyed (not toxic).  Sometimes over time, it can absorb the odors of the urine and then is easy to rake up and remove.  Don't use peagravel--it wanders. Don't use cocoa mulch--toxic.
As for plantings, Azaleas and rhododendrons can be toxic. https://plantaddicts.com/are-azaleas-poisonous/  There are a huge range of plants that are toxic to dogs. Many of these grow well under pine trees, so check before you allow a decorative plant to take over.  https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/dogs-plant-list

Although a list like the one above can drive you crazy--dogs do not like eating poison.  Having had dogs and cats and a garden filled with various toxic plants that migrated in from who knows where, my pets occasionally get nauseated and then I find the culprit and eradicate it.

Finally, just because your dogs are doing poop on your property, you still should pick it up.  Dog poo gets into urban groundwater and is a huge problem. https://smea.uw.edu/currents/scoop-the-poop-its-your-environmental-doody-pun-intended/

Hi Steve,

Thank you for the very quick response.  Are you aware of anything I could plant under the pines, which would cover nicely and not be toxic?  Are you suggesting that there might be a non-toxic Azalea or Rhododendron, which would provide good cover under the pines?  

Kind regards,

Vicki Anderson




From: Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>>
Sent: Monday, March 8, 2021 6:02:52 PM
To: Vicki Anderson <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Re: Non toxic ground cover under acidic pines (#0008097)
 
The Question Asker Replied March 08, 2021, 9:44 PM EST

To answer that I would need a photograph of the trees and a note about direction. (Sun shade matters).
In general heavy peeing is tough for plants (see pee spots on lawns).
You might also consider some kind of raised container or bed under the pines but as of now, I have no idea of the dimensions or siting.

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