Everyone who suffers from seasonal itching and watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, or hives may be sensitive to different types of pollens and environmental irritants. However, there are some common plants that tend to trigger reactions more than others.
What are the seasons worst allergy plants to avoid? Below is a list of plants to stay away from or eliminate from the yard and every season comes with its own particular species.
Summer
Many of the grasses common in the backyard can trigger reactions in the Summer when they are pollinating. Timothy, Kentucky bluegrass, johnson, Bermuda, and rye are all grasses to avoid, particularly in the morning. The pollen is closer to the source in the morning so staying on sidewalks may help. By afternoon the pollens are floating in the air, especially on days with a mild breeze. Remaining indoors in the middle of the day may be helpful.
Fall
Ragweed pollinates in late August so it will be a problem in the Fall. Its pollen can travel hundreds of miles which adds to the problem for those who are allergic. The plant produces yellow flowers. Another plant similar to ragweed is goldenrod, which also pollinates in late Summer and early Fall. It also grows golden flowers and can be a warning to allergy sufferers that ragweed is also in the air. In warmer climates in the South these plants may pollinate throughout the Winter though they generally stop the process after the first frost.
Winter
In late Winter trees pollinate so March may be a difficult month for allergy sufferers. Species like Ash, Cedar, cottonwood, elder, maple and oak can all trigger symptoms.
Spring
Cottonwood may still be pollinating in Spring and spores can often be seen floating through the air. Cedar, elm, and oak are among the trees to avoid as they can pollinate up to the end of April. Sweet grass is another culprit that pollinates around the same time.