7 Tips for an Allergy-Free Garden Zone
Allergies are a gardeners’ worst nightmare. Imagine, the thing that you love doing the most is the thing that gives you the itchy eyes and runny nose you dread. Unfortunately, many gardeners give up, either dealing with the allergies while they garden or quit the gardening game completely. Thankfully, there are plenty ways to make a garden allergy-free, safe for those who are tired of the sneezes and sniffs. Check out these seven tips on how to keep an allergy-free garden zone.
- Avoid Flowers that Pollinate in the Wind
With a little bit of research, you can figure out which of the plants in your garden are the allergy culprits. More than likely, any plants you have that pollinate by traveling on the wind are a problem for your allergies. If you’re unsure where to start, look to see if you have any small, not as colorful flowers in your garden. These are less likely to be visited by insects and, therefore, depend on the wind to help them pollinate.
- Plant Fruit Trees
Fruit trees don’t only create delicious fruit that once mature you’ll get to experience yearly, but they are also beautiful in the spring, with their gorgeous, dainty flowers. And, these flowers usually don’t spread much pollen, so your nose and eyes will be safe. Try planting an apple or cherry tree. Or, if you’re up for the challenge, try a pear or plum tree.
- Plant Shrubs
The word ‘shrub’ might not seem very pretty, but there are plenty of shrubs that have gorgeous blooms that will add color to your garden. And, they are also an allergy-free option. If you want something exotic, try hibiscus bushes. They not only produce stunning flowers, but those flowers, when dried, make a delicious tea. Azalea and hydrangea bushes are other options you can look into.
- Plant Allergy-free Flowers
Allergy sufferers are usually shocked to find out that there are several beautiful flowers that don’t cause allergies. Some favorites are tulips, irises, roses, sunflowers, petunias, and daffodils.
- Keep the Grass Short
Long grass is an invitation to seeds from allergy causing plants to come and take root. Keeping your grass short will at least inhibit these types of plants from taking over your garden.
- Add Stones
Lining your garden with stones won’t only look beautiful, but it will also keep pollen from shifting over from the grass and into your garden. This will help keep those allergens away.
- Keep the Garden Wet
The biggest problem with pollen and the subsequent allergies is when it floats in the air and gets into the respiratory system. You’ll find that watering down your plants beforehand might allow some relief. Water keeps pollen from spreading and might give you the break you need to get back to your gardening.
The above seven tips may not eliminate allergens from getting into your garden and home, but it will reduce the effects greatly. This keeps you active doing the thing you love the most – gardening.
Katie Reed is a passionate writer and mother of four vivacious boys from Salt Lake City, Utah. Drawing from her own journey through TTC, pregnancy, and the joys of raising children, she offers a wealth of insight into the world of motherhood. Beyond her heartfelt tales, Katie delights her readers with family-friendly recipes, engaging crafts, and a curated library of printables for both kids and adults. When she’s not penning her experiences, you’ll find her crafting memories with her husband and sons—Dexter, Daniel, Chester, and Wilder.
