‘Pretty’ pollen-free plants to grow in your garden now

‘Pretty’ pollen-free plants to grow in your garden now

04/25/2023

Alan Titchmarsh gives advice on growing shrub roses

According to GardeningExpress.co.uk, hay fever affects one in three Britons, and it can be extremely unpleasant, with common symptoms including itchy eyes and a blocked nose. However, those who suffer shouldn’t have to miss out on spending time in their gardens, and there are a variety of plants which can help to keep sneezes at a minimum.

Hay fever sufferers can be triggered by pollen particles from grass, weeds and trees, or all three.

Chris Bonnett from GardeningExpress said: “Pollen grains are usually wind borne or picked up on the bodies of beneficial insects such as butterflies and bees.

“Sufferers experience the worst symptoms between late March and September, particularly when it’s warm, humid or windy.

“Flowers that produce a lot of pollen, like daisies, sunflowers and baby’s breath are extremely pretty, but if you’re struggling to see through them streaming eyes, our suggestions should make you able to enjoy the outdoors again.”

Roses

Roses have a beautifully sweet scent but are very low in pollen, making them great options for all gardens because they can be grown in containers.

The small amount of pollen that roses produce is too heavy to be airborne, making them super safe for anyone with allergies.

What’s more, there’s so many varieties and colours of roses available, there is something for everyone out there.

Yarrow

Chris said: “These flowering herbs give hay fever sufferers a pretty, delicate foliage, without being offensive on allergies.

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“They are easy to grow, sometimes classed as a weed and not dusty about their conditions but do enjoy full sun. Yarrow has been used in herbal remedies since ancient times.”

Just like roses, yarrow can also be grown in containers and is a great plant for attracting beneficial insects as well as repelling some pests.

Camellia

Camellias are super easy to grow, known for their bright blooms which come in whites, pinks and reds, retaining its foliage throughout the year.

According to the expert, camellias have both male and female reproductive organs on the same flower, meaning their pollen doesn’t travel far for pollination.

Geranium

The gardening pro continued: “Geraniums are simple, five-petaled flowers that allergy sufferers can enjoy in a variety of colours, including pink, white, red, purple and blue.”

They’re an excellent choice for potted plants as they feature rich green foliage, making great pops of colour on patios as well as decking.

Lobelia

Lobelias are popular blue bedding plants which spill over the edges of containers and hanging baskets during the summer months.

They are perfect for adding a bit of brightness to window boxes and pots, and again, are perfect additions for hay fever sufferers.

Fruit trees

Chris explained: “Most fruit trees are pollinated by insects and not via wind, meaning they are less likely to irritate allergy sufferers.

“Plus depending on the type of tree you pick, you’ll get a bumper crop of apples, pears, or cherries throughout the summer months.”

Conifer

Conifer hedges planted along garden boundaries can help block clouds of pollen as well as adding privacy into the garden, according to the expert.

If you are unsure on which to opt for, Chris recommended going for cedars, firs, junipers, pines, spruces as well as yews.

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