TOM: Before you deck the halls, be aware of the dangers posed by some of our favorite holiday plants. Hi, I’m Tom Kraeutler.
LESLIE: And I’m Leslie Segrete with today’s Money Pit Home Improvement Minute.
TOM: Some plants that look festive can be hazardous to both people and pets and they need to be kept out of reach. For example, ingesting just a few holly berries can trigger illness, and eating 20 could cause death.
LESLIE: Pets may be tempted by the toxic bulbs and leaves of amaryllis and paper whites, and the fruit of the Jerusalem cherry is also poisonous to both animals and humans.
TOM: And the Brazilian pepper’s shiny leaves and bright red berries may seem made for holiday decorating, but just touching or being near the plant can cause skin and breathing reactions.
LESLIE: And be careful where and how you display mistletoe. All parts of it are toxic, so swap it into an organza bag to keep those berries from falling into the path of children and pets. I’m Leslie Segrete.
TOM: And I’m Tom Kraeutler. For more Money Pit home improvement tips, visit moneypit.com.
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