A gardener's guide to managing hay fever

Hay fever is a common allergy to tree, grass and weed pollen – all of which us gardeners spend a lot of time around.

So, if the sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose and headaches are getting in the way of your planting and pruning, try these top tips for managing symptoms.

1.    Check the forecast

You’re probably used to checking the weather forecast for where you are, so get into the habit of checking the pollen forecast too.

It’ll give you an idea of whether there is a low, medium or high amount of pollen in the air and can help you plan your gardening days around those which are showing a high pollen count.

You can see the pollen forecast by visiting the Met Office website. There’s also a really useful app, Your Pollen Pal, which sends you notifications when the pollen count where you are is due to be high.

2.    Cover your face

When pollen makes its way into your eyes, mouth and nose, you may start to see symptoms of hay fever.

Wear a pair of sunglasses while you’re working in the garden. They’ll help to block pollen, as well as shielding your eyes from any soil, dust and debris. Choose lenses which provide protection from ultraviolet light and you’ve got yourself a win win win.

If you feel like you need to cover your mouth and nose too, try a reusable face mask. You may already have some which you bought during the pandemic.

3.    Get clean

When you’re getting down and dirty with the plants, pollen can stick to your hair and clothes.

A refreshing shower after a long day of gardening will wash it all away. Then it’s time for an outfit change while your gardening gear goes through the laundry.

4.    Choose plants carefully

I’ve got some bad news for the dahlia lovers among you – they’re one of the plants to avoid if you suffer from hay fever. The same goes for sunflowers.

Instead, Gardeners' World suggests hardy geraniums and begonias.

5.    Maintain your lawn

The NHS tells hay fever sufferers to avoid grass wherever they can, but it’s not always possible for gardeners. So, where does that leave us?

If your symptoms are mild and you're attached to your grass, keeping the lawn well maintained can help. That means mowing – and cutting grass can be a big trigger. You should ask someone close to you, who doesn't suffer, for help.

6.    Visit the pharmacy

If seasonal allergies are getting in the way of your gardening, you might want to speak to a pharmacist about allergy relief medicines.

Antihistamines can help to relieve hay fever symptoms such as sneezing and itchy eyes. They come in all shapes and sizes – from tablets to eye drops – and are available in drowsy and non-drowsy varieties.

Ask a pharmacist or GP for advice on finding the right antihistamines for you and how they should be taken.

How do you manage your hay fever symptoms? Share your top tips in the comments below...