What trees produce the most pollen? If you’re an allergy-prone gardener, the last thing you want is a yard full of plants that could trigger unsavory reactions.
As Lakewood’s expert tree service, we at Petrarca Landcare Inc. know our local tree varieties like the back of our hand. Keep reading and discover which ones to avoid so you can enjoy your living landscape without a runny nose.
Do you Have Pollen Allergies?
Before anything else, you need to confirm that pollen is the cause of your reactions. Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, stems from the tiny particles released into the air from plants and trees. When it’s the pollen season and you experience the following symptoms, you’re likely sensitive to certain airborne allergens:
- Postnasal drip
- Frequent sneezing
- Red, swollen, or watery eyes
- Itchy nose, ears, eyes, and mouth
- You feel irritable and moody
- Disturbed sleep and general tiredness
Know Your Enemy
See our list of what trees produce the most pollen and avoid them the next time you’re out scouting for saplings to grace your yard. Additionally, when selecting trees, consider the question of how close can I plant my tree to my house to ensure safe and optimal placement in your landscape.
Birch
Birches might have beautiful white bark and sturdy branches, but they could also become a source of misery for you. Both male and female flowers appear on this tree, giving off an ample pollen count in the spring.
Elm
This common street tree releases a large amount of pollen, and worse, they do it two different times a year. You may want to look for alternatives if you’re trying to have an allergen-free garden.
Oak
With its distinct lobed leaves and luscious acorns, oaks are the last tree you would suspect as culprits for your allergies, but they can still prove surprisingly prolific producers of powdery yellow pollen grains.
Mulberry
Mulberries are another favorite among Georgia gardeners, thanks to their colorful, sweet fruits and lovely canopy. Sadly, we don’t recommend them for people with pollen-related allergic reactions.
Ease Pollen Woes During the Allergy Season
If you already have a beloved specimen of these trees in your yard, all is not lost. Follow these tips to minimize your reactions:
- Close all your windows and doors at all times, and keep the AC running to filter your indoor air.
- Move all your tree care work and outdoor activities to the afternoon. Pollen levels are highest in the morning.
- Shower after spending time outdoors and before you go to bed at night to wash away any sticky pollen clinging to your skin or hair.
- Take antihistamines or consult your doctor for more specialized medications to control your symptoms.
We hope that we’ve helped you determine what trees produce the most pollen and some ways to cope with your allergies. Did you know that you can also minimize pollen production if you trim your plant at the right time?
At Petrarca Landcare Inc., we’re here to help you with your arboriculture needs, no matter the season or time of day. Call (330) 933-0562 and reap the benefits of pruning trees!