For many, gardening is a rewarding and peaceful hobby—that is until hay fever season arrives. The joy of planting flowers, pruning shrubs, and tending to vegetables can quickly be overshadowed by sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose.
Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, occurs when the immune system overreacts to airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mould spores, and pet dander. Common symptoms include persistent sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, and itchy, red, watery eyes that may be sensitive to light. Many also experience an itchy throat or ears, often with a scratchy sensation. Fatigue and irritability can develop after prolonged exposure, affecting overall well-being.
However, hay fever doesn’t mean you have to give up gardening. With the right strategies, plant choices, and precautions, you can still enjoy your outdoor space without constant discomfort.
Managing your pollen allergy
Reducing exposure to pollen and mould allergens is essential for those with allergies, but staying indoors constantly is not practical. Instead, strategic measures can help minimise symptoms while allowing enjoyment of outdoor spaces.
One can also practice gardening with some adjustments. Use low-allergen mulch instead of organic compost, and keep lawns short to prevent flowering and pollen release. Alternatives like decking, shingle, or artificial turf offer low-maintenance solutions. Keeping compost heaps covered can prevent the spread of mould spores, and climbing plants should not be grown near windows to reduce pollen entry indoors.
Protective measures, such as wearing goggles, gloves, and long sleeves, help prevent direct contact with allergens. Showering and changing clothes after outdoor activities remove residual pollen. A filtration face mask is beneficial for mowing or raking leaves. Wraparound sunglasses shield eyes, and a hat with a brim reduces pollen accumulation on hair and skin. Using saline nasal washes, allergen barrier balms, and high-quality air filters further help manage exposure.
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Choosing allergy-friendly plants is also essential for creating a garden that minimises hay fever symptoms. The best options are those that produce minimal pollen or rely on insects for pollination rather than wind dispersal.
Several flowers and shrubs are suitable for an allergy-friendly garden. Roses, hydrangeas, fuchsias, camellias, and begonias are all excellent choices. For trees and hedges, consider apple trees, magnolias, cherry trees, and holly, which are less likely to trigger allergies.
Ground cover plants and grasses can also be selected carefully. Irish moss, clover, and periwinkle provide excellent alternatives to traditional grass while keeping pollen exposure low. Additionally, herbs and vegetables such as lavender, rosemary, mint, and tomatoes are great choices.
Available treatment to look into
Managing hay fever involves minimising exposure to allergens and using medications like antihistamines, decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, or immunotherapy for severe cases.
Understanding the difference between seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis is key. Seasonal allergies often require avoiding outdoor allergens, using antihistamines, and nasal sprays, while perennial allergic rhinitis may necessitate improving indoor air quality through regular cleaning and air purifiers.
Antihistamines help relieve hay fever symptoms and are available over the counter or by prescription. These medications come in tablets, capsules, syrups, creams, eye drops, and nasal sprays. A pharmacist can recommend the most suitable option.
Nasal sprays provide fast relief for congestion and are available over the counter or by prescription. Proper usage is essential for effectiveness. Immunotherapy, or desensitisation, is also an option for severe allergies unresponsive to standard treatments. It involves gradually increasing allergen exposure through injections or sublingual tablets.
Before starting any treatment, it is always best to consult a doctor to ensure the chosen approach is safe and appropriate for your specific condition.
