Native Plants
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
rate this answer
Tuesday - May 01, 2007
From: Berkeley, CA
Region: California
Topic: Non-Natives, Pests
Title: Cat deterents
Answered by: Nan Hampton
QUESTION:
I was wondering if there is such a plant that will deter cats from going in your gardens. I have a problem with them using my garden as a litter box, and had heard that there was a plant that they do not like and will not go near anything if that plant is in it. Any information would be greatly appreciated.ANSWER:
Animal Care Services from the city of Berkeley, California has a list of suggestions for keeping cats out flower beds and yards. One of their suggestions includes using a European herb, common rue (Ruta graveolens). Another European plant that has been claimed to repel cats, dogs and even foxes is Coleus canina. Since neither of these plants is native to North America, Mr. Smarty Plants would urge you to try the other remedies suggested by the Animal Care Services of Berkeley before you think of planting these non-native plants. If you do decide to plant them, we suggest that you do so in pots rather than in the ground to discourage them from spreading into unwanted areas and becoming invasive. Care should be taken also to remove any seed heads before they ripen and drop their seeds.
More Non-Natives Questions
Possible damage by invasive, non-native earthworms in compost
January 03, 2007 - I received a worm bin (vermicomposter) for Christmas. The instructions that came with the bin say to use the red wiggler worm (Eisenia foetida) and that it is okay if some of the worms go into your g...
view the full question and answer
Non-native, care for Jade plant.
June 22, 2009 - I've had a jade plant for 5 years and it has done well, even though it was in a plastic pot with regular soil. I need to repot it and it was recommended I use a clay pot and a soil made for succulen...
view the full question and answer
Newly planted Burford Holly doing poorly in Austin, TX.
July 25, 2011 - About a month ago I bought dwarf burford holly. Now they have slowly started getting brown leaves that eventually fall off. Some of the plants have white spots on the ends. I usually check my plant...
view the full question and answer
Looking for Mimosa pudica plants in Austin, TX.
March 10, 2012 - Where can I buy a Mimosa pudica plant in or near Austin? I don't want seeds, but a few small actual plants. Thanks!
view the full question and answer
Is a mulberry tree undesirable?
June 27, 2013 - I have a hard time keeping plants alive, so I was happy when a random plant just started growing and thriving about 5 years ago in my yard. My mom (a frequent volunteer at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildf...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |