Should I not grow holly in my yard because I have children? I’ve heard the berries are poisonous.

Yes, holly berries are poisonous. Generally speaking, children will not tend to eat plants that are poisonous simply because they do not taste good. However, sometimes bright or interesting berries, such as those on a holly or yew shrub, are interesting to children and they may be inclined to try them out. To be on the safe side, you could remove any berries that would be within reach of children. Also talk to them about poisonous plants and how important it is not to put any plant material in their mouths unless they have checked it with an adult. Have repeated conversations with your children whenever there is an opportunity, such as while playing in the yard or going to a park. If children know they shouldn’t eat plants arbitrarily because they may make them sick, then they probably will not eat them. It is wise, nonetheless, not to plant potentially poisonous plants if you have small children or live in a day care setting. Cornell University has a comprehensive list of poisonous plants at http://www.ansci.cornell.edu/plants/comlist.html