Tips for Hay Fever Free Gardening

Spring and Summer are perfect seasons to get outside and tackle the garden. However, a lot of us suffer from hay fever at some point in our lives, and for those who suffer from it badly, it can ruin the gardening experience and make you not want to carry out even simple tasks during peak pollen season.

Although the symptoms cannot suddenly go away completely, there are some things you can do to try and ensure that you do not suffer as badly, so that you can enjoy your garden again.

1.    Use a sprinkler to water the garden before a gardening session, as some plants stop shedding pollen in wet conditions.

2.    Keep inside whilst lawn mowing is taking place.

3.    If you have to mow the lawn, try wearing a mask to cover your mouth and nose.

4.    Mow the lawn regularly. This will help prevent the grass from flowering, which means it will produce less pollen.

5.    Choose low allergy options to plant in your garden. Lavender, pansies, roses, iris and peonies are all great options.

6.    Choose insect pollinated plants - in general, plants that are pollinated by bees will be better for you because the pollen is heavier and falls to the ground. Try and avoid plants that are wind pollinated as this type of pollen will stay in the air much longer. Allium, iris, crocus, bluebell, snowdrop and hyacinth are all perfect for pollinators.

7.    Go for colourful plants. One rule of thumb is the more colourful the flower, the smaller the chance of bad hay fever symptoms. Colourful flowers are more likely to be pollinated by insects.

8.    Shower immediately after you have been in the garden and change into fresh clothes as pollen and allergens can stay on your skin and clothes for a long time which can cause irritation.

9.    Try and eat more Vitamin C rich foods as it boosts your immune system.

10.    Try to avoid caffeinated drinks if you are suffering from hay fever as caffeine triggers histamine release.

11.    Avoid gardening if the pollen is expected to be really high. Check the weather forecast so you are aware of which days are meant to be the worst.

12.    Try and plan your gardening on cooler and cloudier days.

13.    Venture into the garden in the afternoon when the pollen count in the air tends to be lower.

14.    Create a cool, shady seating area. Having decking or a patio means you can still enjoy your garden, whilst staying away from the grass.

15.    Pull weeds out as soon as you spot them so they do not have time to flower.

16.    Create a water feature - they can help you feel more refreshed and less stuffy.

If you need more help or advice for which plants are best for hay fever sufferers then please contact us.
Boston Bulbs Wholesale is a privately-owned business with over 35 years' experience of importing only the finest quality horticultural products throughout Europe and from farmers and growers all over the UK. Whether you're a landscaper, nursery, local authority, wholesaler, retailer, private business or individual gardener, just give us a call on 01775 769 333 or visit / for help with flower bulbs, grass seed and more.