Typically, the onset of spring marks the beginning of the allergy season with the pollen of ash, birch, elm, hickory and other trees wafting through the air. Late spring and summer bring problems with grasses. Summer and fall continue the agony with numerous weeds such as burdock, ragweed (goldenrod) and amaranth.
Pollen and moulds are some of the most common causes of allergies, but it can be very difficult to visualize mould and pollen in the air.
Northwestern Ontario, because of its large areas of forested land, often has higher pollen index levels than other areas in the province. While you cannot do anything about the pollen in the air across the region, you can reduce the pollen levels right in your own yard and garden, which may provide you with reduced symptoms.
By knowing your allergies and identifying the plants that cause you problems, you can begin developing avoidance strategies. Utilize plants throughout the landscape that do not cause problems for your allergies.
If you have allergies to tree pollen, you can plant shrubs or flowers instead. If grasses cause problems, avoid large expanses of lawn. Believe it or not, for those that suffer from pollen and mould allergies, the culprits causing your allergic reaction are often highest within one metre of the plant or tree.
Many of the available ornamental shrubs, annuals and perennials are usually safe for most people. Rely on the Latin plant names to determine whether a certain plant belongs to a family that you are sensitive to. The internet or plant books are good resources for this information.
As most often, fruit trees are pollinated by insects, they are also typically safe for most people. You may also want to consider planting perennials that are known for their decorative foliage—Hosta, lamb’s ear, Ajuga (bugleweed), silver mound) instead of their flowers.
While some of these species of perennials still produce flowers, the spikes can be cut off as soon as they appear to eliminate the flowers altogether. Also look for varieties of trees and ornamental shrubs with decorative foliage.
In many species such as these, the flowers are not the main focal point and are usually quite inconspicuous and not usually a problem for those with allergies. Again, cross-reference your plant of choice with the family and genus it belongs to to determine whether it will be bothersome for you.
To reduce your contact with pollen:
- Wear a dust mask and sun or safety glasses.
- Wear a hat, gloves, long-sleeved shirts and pants.
- Long hair should be pinned up and tucked under a hat to prevent spores from settling in.
- Avoid taking pollen-covered clothing into the house. Wash these clothes frequently and do not dry outside on the clothesline.
- Shower immediately after outside exposure, making sure to wash thoroughly, including your hair and then changing into clean clothing.
- When you wash your outdoor clothing, use hot water to ensure that you kill all of the spores.
By following the tips listed in this column, you may find that you can enjoy your yard or garden after all without bulging pockets full of tissues.
