Growing Pet Grass

Grow pet grass in clay pots for its green color.

Besides being a snack for pets, this grass can be grown simply to add a splash of green color and fine texture indoors or outdoors. Plant it in pots for contemporary style table centerpieces.

This grass is attractive to dogs and cats. They need a little grass in their diets, especially if they do not spend a lot of time outdoors where they will often chew on whatever grass is available. This grass is also called intermediate wheatgrass, but it is not the wheat from which bread flour is made. This is originally an Asian pasture grass that was introduced to the US many years ago for pasture and fodder. You can grow it in pots for your indoor pets, or plant it in beds outdoors for animals that spend time outside.

In the Garden

Some dogs and cats seem to crave a salad. Come to think of it, so do we. Pets actually get nutrition from their grazing, not to mention the breath cleansing chlorophyll and a good cleansing of their digestive system.

To satisfy your pets’ cravings without the danger of parasites or pesticides that might be found in the garden, plant pet grass in a container for them to enjoy. If your pet lives primarily indoors, plant two containers, one to have indoors while the other goes back out into the sun to regain its vigor. Use a container that is the right height for your pet, sort of like the racks that elevate food bowls to the appropriate height.

Pet grass is easy to grow. It naturally reaches up to a foot or so high. You can plant it in a spot where a clump can grow to full size, or keep it trimmed with sharp scissors to 3 or 4 inches—if your pets don’t do it for you. When the planting declines, or gets eaten, just start over.

Grow pet grass for cats to nibble on.

Pet grass can be grown indoors or outdoors for pets to munch on fresh, nutritious green grass.

Like other grasses, pet grass prefers full sun and well-drained soil. However, for best growth, keep the potting mix evenly moist. Use care when fertilizing. If grass yellows or growth declines, water with Bonnie Herb & Vegetable Plant Food. It is made from soybean oilseed extract and should not be offputting to a pet, nor will it have a fishy or animal smell as do some organic formulas.

Avoid overwatering. If the soil is keep too soggy, the roots could rot.

To keep your indoor pet happy!

What is pet grass exactly?

The seeds used to grow pet grass are actually a form of perennial wheat. While not grown commercially, it is edible.

Why do pets need grass?

Some experts think that it helps cats deal with hairballs, add fiber, and even supplement their diet with folic acid. It is thought that dogs need fiber, and they need greens as part of their naturally omnivorous diet. Both cats and dogs seem to crave grass from time to time.

Can I just use any grass for my pets?

Dogs and cats alike will chew on grass outdoors, but it could be a source of fertilizer, pesticides, and parasites. In addition, many of our pets, particularly cats, are restricted to life indoors. Bonnie’s pet grass is actually an edible grain. It is just one way to be sure you are giving your pets something that is good for them, and for indoor pets, it provides a little taste of the great outdoors.

How do I teach my dog the difference between eating pet grass in a pot and eating a houseplant in a pot?

This is a concern, especially because many houseplants would be detrimental to your pet’s health. We suggest placing the pot of pet grass in the area where your dog eats, away from other houseplants. Hopefully the appeal of pet grass over other plants will reinforce good behavior. If there is any problem, go to your pet store and ask for a bitter-tasting spray that will discourage your dog from sampling the other greenery.

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