I like to think my dog Arthur and I have a few things in common. We both love walks, spending time with my wife, and barking at squirrels (ok that last one is mostly just him). What I didn’t expect was that we’d have the same taste for poison.
Even with spring and summer in the rearview mirror, certain plants are still thriving in the Hudson Valley. Unfortunately, one of these native species is toxic from its roots to its berries… and looks delicious to both humans and dogs.
Two photos of a mini golden doodle
Hudson Valley Plant Poisonous to Humans and Dogs
To clarify, the poisonings of my dog and me happened more than thirty years apart, however the culprit was the very same plant. Its plump fruit resembles blueberries, but the toxins inside can cause symptoms ranging from an upset stomach all the way to death.
Photo of a pokeweed plant
Plant Poisonous for Humans in the Hudson Valley
I was barely a toddler when I decided to make a snack out of the plant that can grow nearly 10 feet tall. As my parents tell the story, we were spending time outside when I waddled up to them with my face and hands covered in berry juice, and they had no choice but to induce vomiting to get the poison out of my body.
Photo of a pokeweed plant
Plant Poisonous for Dogs in the Hudson Valley
Fast forward to 2024 and my dog decided to follow in my footsteps. Luckily, he has his own defense mechanisms and induced his vomiting all on his own. The next morning, we discovered the poison plant growing through our backyard fence. Here’s what to watch out for.
Toxic Pokeweed in the Hudson Valley, NY
The plant in question is pokeweed, which is poisonous all the way from its roots to its berries. While pokeweed is a native plant (and is a delicious snack for birds and other wildlife), it is poisonous for both humans and pets.
Pokeweed is most easily managed when plants are still small, as larger plants develop a strong root system, making removal nearly impossible. In our yard, we were forced to simply cut the plants down instead of fully uprooting them. Check out more plants to avoid this fall below.
15 Toxic Plants That Linger During Fall In Upstate New York
As Fall kicks in all across Upstate New York, while you’re enjoying the beautiful colors, you need to still watch out for these 15 toxic plants that linger.
Gallery Credit: Dave Wheeler
Plant Some Of These In Your New York Garden to Keep Mosquitoes Away
How do you keep these dangerous creepy crawlies away from you and your yard? Well, you could spend a small fortune on citronella candles all summer long. Or you can plant some of these 11 plant varieties around your garden or yard:
Gallery Credit: Dave Wheeler
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