Mountain Laurels - Ask Extension
We moved here 2 years ago. We have a wall of Mountain Laurels between our property and the neighbors (who have 3 young boys - ages 2, 6 and 8). I just...
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Mountain Laurels #868465
Asked May 14, 2024, 8:20 PM EDT
We moved here 2 years ago. We have a wall of Mountain Laurels between our property and the neighbors (who have 3 young boys - ages 2, 6 and 8). I just noticed them and looked them up and was horrified to see how poisonous they are (i.e. could be fatal if ingested and bees produce poisonous honey from them).
What do you recommend? How to get rid of them?
Thanks!
Charles County Maryland
Expert Response
We would not suggest removing these shrubs.
Many commonly used landscape plants are potentially toxic but are rarely problematic.
You are really fortunate to have these beautiful native shrubs growing nearby. They are not easy to grow and must be in a well-suited site where they are very happy in order to thrive.
This plant is toxic by ingestion and children need to be taught not to eat anything unless it's been given to them by a trusted, responsible adult, and younger kids need supervision until they understand.
Christine
Many commonly used landscape plants are potentially toxic but are rarely problematic.
You are really fortunate to have these beautiful native shrubs growing nearby. They are not easy to grow and must be in a well-suited site where they are very happy in order to thrive.
This plant is toxic by ingestion and children need to be taught not to eat anything unless it's been given to them by a trusted, responsible adult, and younger kids need supervision until they understand.
Christine
Hello:
The flowers of the Mountain Laurels are falling into a chicken pen. If chickens eat these, is that an issue?
Thank you,
Connie
We don't have enough research information to give you a good answer. Since the flower drop is an annual event however, we wonder if the chickens are new or have been there for a while.
As a chicken keeper and pet lover myself, I've noticed that my animals generally know what they can and can't eat safely, but I guess there is always the possibility that a chicken may nibble something new. Whether that is enough to harm them we can't really say.
Christine
As a chicken keeper and pet lover myself, I've noticed that my animals generally know what they can and can't eat safely, but I guess there is always the possibility that a chicken may nibble something new. Whether that is enough to harm them we can't really say.
Christine
