Choosing Low-Allergen Plants for an Allergy-Friendly Garden

Creating an allergy-friendly garden begins with selecting plants that produce minimal pollen. Insect-pollinated plants, such as many flowers and shrubs, are ideal because they release heavier pollen that doesn’t travel far, unlike wind-pollinated plants, which spread pollen over great distances and often trigger allergic reactions.

Some great low-allergen plant options include:

• Flowers: Tulips, lilies, daffodils, and peonies are not only beautiful but also produce minimal pollen.

• Shrubs: Azaleas, hydrangeas, and camellias are excellent choices for allergy sufferers.

• Trees: Dogwood, Japanese maple, and red maples have less airborne pollen, making them suitable for allergy-friendly gardens.

• Herbs and Groundcovers: Lavender, thyme, mint, and moss are perfect for creating a low-pollen environment.

Avoid high-pollen plants like grasses (e.g., Bermuda grass), oak trees, and ragweed, which can trigger severe allergic reactions. Additionally, incorporating groundcovers, selecting female plants (which don’t release pollen), and maintaining your garden regularly can further reduce allergens. With careful planning and the right plant choices, you can enjoy a vibrant, allergy-friendly garden that minimizes the risk of allergic reactions.