As the warm weather beckons us to spend more time outdoors, hay fever sufferers face a challenge: knowing which plants to avoid to minimize allergy symptoms. Gardening expert Fiona Jenkins from MyJobQuote.co.uk highlights five plants that can exacerbate hay fever and offers some helpful alternatives.
1. Dahlias
Dahlias are vibrant, colorful flowers that add beauty to any garden. However, they belong to the aster family, which means they produce a lot of pollen. This can be problematic for hay fever sufferers. If you still want to enjoy dahlias, consider “formal double” hybrids, which have fewer pollen-producing parts.
2. Sunflowers
Sunflowers are beloved for their tall, sun-kissed blooms, but they also produce a significant amount of pollen. While most sunflowers are yellow, some varieties come in other colors like red and green. For a pollen-free option, look for sunflower varieties with heavy pollen that doesn’t spread easily.
3. Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums are versatile garden flowers known for their late-summer blooms. Unfortunately, they are another member of the aster family, packed with allergy-inducing pollen. For alternatives, consider roses and peonies, which are less likely to trigger allergies.
4. Ryegrass
Ryegrass is a common lawn grass in the UK, but it’s a major culprit for hay fever sufferers. Its wind-pollinated nature means its pollen can easily become airborne, irritating eyes and noses. If you’re severely affected, consider replacing your lawn with artificial grass or alternative landscaping.
5. Ragweed
Ragweed is not typically planted intentionally but can be a common invasive weed. It produces an enormous amount of lightweight pollen, making it a significant allergen. Removing ragweed from your garden is crucial if you suffer from hay fever.
By avoiding these plants and opting for low-pollen alternatives, you can enjoy your garden without the discomfort of allergies.
