Sneezy, sleepy, dopey and grumpy all rolled into one when it comes to allergy sufferers. If you suffer from hayfever and other allergies, let it be know that there are some do's and don'ts to help make your life bearable.
For instance, DO keep windows closed to prevent tree and grass allergens from entering your home; DO Keep your car windows up while driving; DO wash your hair every night before bed to keep pollen away from your bedding; and DO see a doctor if non-prescription allergy medicines don't seem to work.
Some DON'TS include: DON'T mow lawns or rake leaves; DON'T hang anything out to dry since pollen will stick to clothes; DON'T drink or smoke since spirits increase mucus production and cigarettes irritate already itchy eyes; and DON'T think nothing can be done medically to help.
Since this is a gardening column. let it be known that the main culprits for allergy sufferers are our own gardens. Add, too, the fact that the mild climate in much of California contributes to a near year-round allergy problem for many.
In January and February, allergy sufferers may react to everything from unsuspecting junipers to cypress. In spring, grass allergies take over and, in fall, weeds become the number-one enemy. Even as we beautify our gardens, we sometimes unwittingly contribute to skyrocketing pollen levels. A single olive tree planted in your garden, for instance, can expose you to 10 times the pollen than if it were growing a block away.
Although substances like molds, dust and animal dander can plague allergy sufferers, this time of year we're at the height of springtime pollen season. There are often thousands of airborne pollen grains in every cubic meter of air. One can breathe in hundreds of pollens with every breath. However, it is possible to get some relief by knowing what not to plant.
For instance, did you know that not all fragrant flowers are full of pollen? Just because roses, jasmine, citrus and eucalyptus trees smell doesn't mean they cause allergies. While some of these plants do cause problems for people with allergies, these problems are more associated with fragrance rather than pollen. People with allergies tend to have sensitive airways and can be adversely affected much more easily than others.
A list of common pollen-producing plants include: juniper, privet, ash, sweet gum, acacia, walnut, oak, birch, willow and fruitless mulberry. So-called "sneezeless" replacements may include: nandina, oleander. yucca, manzinita, pyracantha, Chinese tallow. tulip. silk, strawberry, pear, podocarpus, dogwood, fir, palm, plum and crepe myrtles.
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