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Some plants commonly associated with the holidays can be poisonous. Fortunately, many of these plants have a very bitter taste that can prevent large amounts of the plant from being eaten.
Poinsettia and mistletoe should be kept away from curious children, but the list includes other flowers and plants such as azaleas, calla lily, carnation, daffodil, foxglove, hydrangeas, iris, lantana, narcissus, poppy, sweet pea and tulips. Different parts of the plant may be toxic.
Some symtoms of plant poisoning
According to the UC Agriculture and Natural Resources’ Poisonous Plant publication, some plants have substances that irritate the skin or mouth and cause stomach upset, while others can cause vomiting or diarrhea. Skin rashes are one of the most common health complaints that arise from handling certain plants, but fatalities can occur when toxin-containing plants or plant parts are ingested. The signs of poisoning may not appear for many hours after tasting or swallowing poisonous plant parts.
What to do if plant poisoning is suspected
If you suspect that someone has been poisoned by a plant, the UC Poisonous Plants publication recommends calling your doctor or the Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222. If you are advised to go to the hospital, take a sample of the plant with you.
For more information about poisonous plants, consult the UC Poisonous Plants publication.
December garden tips
Watch out for mushrooms at the base of your tree
Mushrooms at the base of a tree could signal a problem with the tree. Armillaria Root Rot is a fungus that can live in the soil for many years. It can rot the roots and cause leaves and branches to die and can eventually kill a plant. Another common term for this disease is Oak Root Fungus, although it affects many different species of trees and even some herbaceous plants (most flowering plants, grasses, vegetables). Often by the time the fruiting bodies (mushrooms) are visible, much damage has already been done. The fungus feeds on both live and decaying wood. Cutting back a small section of bark can reveal white fan-shaped or black stringy fungus, which aids in diagnosis. Keeping the plant healthy provides some defense. Fungi thrive in moist conditions, so do not overwater the area. Also, keep mulch and other plants away from the trunks of trees so as not to hold moisture against the crown (base). The best defense against this disease is to plant resistant varieties.
December gardening events
Usher in the holidays with succulents
The UC Master Gardeners of Santa Clara County is holding a holiday succulent sale on Saturday, Dec. 21 that features succulent Yule logs, table arrangements and plants. The event takes place from 9 a.m. to noon at the UC Master Gardener Martial Cottle Park Community Education Center, 5283 Snell Ave., San Jose.
To learn about how to care for succulents, including what kind of soil is best for succulents, how to water and fertilize them, sun exposure, propagation and more, go to the UC Master Gardeners website.
Succulent tip for cold winter weather: Some succulents can tolerate light frosts or even severe freezes. If you don’t know for sure, assume that they will need protection if the temperature is going to dip below freezing.
There are several UC Master Gardener gardening events taking place all over the county this month. See complete list on our events page.
Avoid walking on wet soil
The clay soils that dominate our area are particularly susceptible to compaction, especially when we have received a lot of rain. These soils are characterized by small mineral particles that squeeze out the air spaces, making it more difficult for plant roots and soil organisms to get the oxygen they need to flourish. Try to avoid walking on or using heavy equipment on soil that is wet. Digging in wet soil can also destroy the structure, breaking up useful soil aggregates and earthworm tunnels. Try to wait until the soil is moist, not wet or dry, for easiest tillage. If you must walk or stand on the soil, use a board to distribute your weight over a broader area. Mulch also can create a bit of a cushion and help minimize compaction.
Do you have a gardening question? The UC Master Gardeners of Santa Clara County can help. Our volunteers are part of the University of California’s Cooperative Extension program and we are trained to use research-based information to educate our fellow residents on sustainable gardening and landscaping practices specifically for our area.
Our monthly “Ask a Master Gardener” column will answer your questions and offer tips. Have a question? Email lifestyle@embarcaderopublishing.com.
You can also subscribe to our monthly Tips and Events newsletter. San Mateo residents can also find gardening advice on the UC Master Gardeners of San Mateo and San Francisco website.
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