The findings, by MORE TH>N the insurance company, show that 31% of gardeners have no idea if they are growing plants that are harmful to pets.

Over thirty plants can be dangerous if eaten, they don't need to be unusual or exotic. Hostas, delphiniums and dahlias in your flower bed; lobelia and marigolds in a window box; wisteria and clematis against the house, they are all problematic for pets.

Usually the only problem is an upset stomach but according to the research, 8% of British dogs and cats have eaten poisonous plants, nearly half have needed to have treatment, and sadly 15% have died.

'Pawtanical' garden

The insurers have even created a garden to focus attention on the problem, planted only with toxic plants. For humans it might be a very beautiful and tranquil place to relax but for their pets it's a poisonous no-go zone. 

Called the 'Pawtanical' Garden, many people might guess that foxgloves would feature, but there are also chrysanthemums, daisies, hydrangea, ivy and poppies. Even tomato plants pose a threat, and all of these are typical of the plants we grow in our gardens.

In addition to plants, there are other dangers that pets are subject to: acorns, pond algae and cocoa mulch plus various fertilizers and garden chemicals.

The garden is part of a Pet Safe Plant campaign that wants to raise awareness of the problem and is designed to persuade manufacturers to clearly label their products.

If you are also concerned, tweet your support @MORETHAN using #safeseeds