How dangerous are Yew trees?

I understand your concerns regarding the Yew hedges in your garden and the potential risks they may pose, especially considering the toxicity of their berries. Your cautious approach is entirely reasonable, especially when there are children frequently present around the area.Each individual scenario is different but I can offer some general insights that might help you make an informed decision. Yew hedges (Taxus baccata) are indeed known for their highly toxic berries. The severity of the toxicity varies, and while it's true that consuming even a small amount of the berries can be harmful, the likelihood of accidental consumption can be reduced through proper education and supervision. If you are worried about the risk posed by the Yew hedges, here are some considerations to help guide your decision: 1. Educating Children: If there are children who play in the garden, including your daughter and the neighbours' kids, it's important to educate them about the potential dangers of the Yew berries. Ensuring they understand not to touch or eat any part of the plant can help reduce the risk. 2. Supervision: If children are playing near the hedges, active supervision can go a long way in preventing them from coming into contact with the berries. 3. Physical Barriers: You might consider installing a barrier around the hedges to prevent children from accessing them. This can provide an extra layer of safety. 4. Regular Pruning: Regular pruning and maintenance of the hedges can help keep them at a height that is out of easy reach for children. 5. Replacement: If your concerns remain high and you feel the risk outweighs the benefits, you could consider replacing the Yew hedges with a non-toxic alternative that still provides the desired aesthetics and functionality. Ultimately, the decision is yours, and it's important to prioritise the safety and well-being of everyone who spends time in the garden. If you're unsure about what to do, seeking advice from a local gardening expert or a horticulturist might provide you with more specific insights based on your garden's layout and the local environment. Remember that it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to potential hazards, especially when young children are involved.

yew tree leaves are poisonous and can be fatal if eaten by us or livestock

European yew is a poisonous plant. Eating a relatively small quantity of leaves can be fatal for livestock and humans if accidentally ingested.