How can gardening and landscaping practices be adjusted to limit Blue Lyme Grass pollen exposure?

Adjusting your gardening and landscaping practices can significantly reduce exposure to Blue Lyme Grass pollen. Firstly, consider reducing the presence of this grass from your landscape or eliminating it altogether if possible. There are numerous non-allergenic and low-pollen native plants available that you can replace it with.

Next, choose the timing of your gardening wisely. Pollen counts from grasses are typically highest during early mornings and late evenings, so try to work in your garden at other times when pollen counts are lower. Keeping yourself protected by wearing gardening gloves, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and sunglasses can help to minimize direct skin and eye contact with pollen.

Pollen can cling to your clothes and body. When you're finished with your gardening activities, take a shower and change into fresh clothing to eliminate any pollen that may have attached to you.

Maintaining your garden by promptly mowing lawns, pruning plants and regularly damp dusting outdoor furniture can help to limit accumulated pollen in your environment. Use pollen-proof covers for outdoor furniture when not in use. Additionally, keep your house windows closed during high pollen times to avoid pollen from entering your home.

If gardening tasks include mowing or mulching, consider wearing a pollen mask to limit inhalation of these allergens. Alternatively, you may want to consider delegating these tasks to others who do not suffer from allergies if possible. It's also beneficial to take your antihistamine medication prior to starting your gardening practices.

These preventative measures can drastically reduce exposure to Blue Lyme Grass pollen and help to minimize your allergic reactions during gardening and landscaping activities. Your allergist or local extension service can provide specific advice tailored to your individual situation.