Avoiding allergens in the garden possible

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 15 (UPI) -- February is the month gardeners plan their garden and for those who suffer from allergies, U.S. allergists suggest some plants are better than others.

Dr. Henry Legere, a board certified allergist serving the greater Austin, Texas, area, says pollen from trees, shrubs and grasses can cause an onslaught of allergy symptoms, including sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion and in some cases, an asthma attack.

"Gardening outside during times of high pollen counts puts patients at risk for severe allergic symptoms," Legere says in a statement. "Avoidance measures, as well as the use of medications and allergy immunotherapy, can make the difference between having fun in the garden and being miserable."

An allergist/immunologist can help determine what plant species are causing an allergic reaction and advise on the best times of day or season to work in the garden. For example, pollen levels are typically lower on rainy, cloudy and windless days and immunotherapy -- allergy shots -- medications and other treatments can also help reduce symptoms, Legere says in a statement.

Certain flowers, trees and grasses are naturally better suited for the gardens of allergic people, these include cacti, cherry, dahlia, daisy, geranium, iris, magnolia, rose, snapdragon and tulip.

In general, highly allergenic plants to avoid include ash, cedar, cottonwood, oak, maple, pine, saltgrass and timothy.