Taking Care of Yourself (and Your Lawn) During Pollen Season

With pollen season in full swing, maintaining your Michigan lawn can be a challenge – especially if you or your family members suffer from allergies. Pollen is everywhere this time of year, clinging to our clothes, cars, and even our shoes as we track it inside our homes. To help reduce allergy symptoms while caring for your yard, here are some practical tips for managing lawn maintenance during peak pollen season.

Keep Your Grass Short

Keeping your grass short during pollen season can help reduce the amount of pollen released into the air, making it easier to manage allergies. Shorter grass limits the growth of pollen-producing weeds and prevents grass from going to seed, which can contribute to airborne allergens. Regular mowing also keeps your lawn healthy and less likely to harbor irritants like mold or dust.

Mow Your Lawn in the Evenings

Homeowners should mow their lawns in the evenings since pollen counts are typically lower during this time of day. Additionally, you should try to avoid mowing your lawn in the morning, since pollen levels are typically at their highest. This simple timing adjustment can make a big difference in keeping symptoms under control.

Wear Protective Gear

Wearing protective gear can be especially helpful for those who are prone to allergy attacks caused by pollen. Protective gear can create a barrier between you and airborne allergens while mowing or working in the yard. This not only reduces direct contact with pollen but also helps prevent it from being inhaled or getting into your eyes. Plus, items like gloves, face coverings and shoes can be removed before entering your home. This helps prevent pollen from being tracked inside your home. Some items include:

• Face coverings (including a face dust mask or respirator)
• Gloves
• Long sleeve shirts
• Long pants
• Shoes that can be left outside

Other Tips for Reducing Pollen Exposure

Here's some ways you can lower the risk of pollen exposure:

• Take a shower – Once you're done working in the yard, immediately shower off. By showering, you can remove any residual pollen that comes in contact with your skin or hair.
• Change your clothes – In addition to taking a shower, putting on a fresh set of clothes can lower the likelihood of an allergic reaction. 
• Keep your windows closed – Keeping your windows closed while you mow reduces the amount of pollen coming into your home. When you mow your lawn, pollen gets kicked up into the air which can carry pollen into your home if the windows are open.

Consider using a grass catcher (or bagger) – These bags can catch stray grass and lower the amount of pollen released into the air. 

Introduce Low-Pollen Alternatives

For those who have very severe pollen allergies, installing low-pollen grass types may help to significantly reduce their allergies. These grasses are not only beneficial for allergies but perform well in Michigan’s climate. Some of these include Bermudagrass hybrids, Buffalograss and St. Augustine grass. 

For those with less severe allergies or who aren’t ready to replace their grass, introducing low-allergy plants might be helpful in mitigating the spread of pollen. Hydrangeas, tulips and pansies are excellent choices for those who suffer from allergies but want to adorn their lawn with plant life. Additionally, these plants grow well in Michigan. 

Get in Touch With a Lawncare Professional

If your allergies are severe, it may be worth considering professional lawn care services during peak pollen season. Professional services allow you to maintain a healthy, well-kept lawn without exposing yourself to high levels of pollen. Plus, lawn care technicians have the tools and experience to handle yard work efficiently and minimize the spread of pollen. 

Need a Lawn Care Expert? Visionary Fertilization Is Standing By!

Looking for professional lawn care services? Our team is standing by. Based in Shelby Township, Visionary Fertilization proudly serves Macomb County and the surrounding areas. Our lawn care experts can manage your lawn and help reduce the spread of pollen. 

If you’re looking for professionals who can manage your lawn and mitigate the spread of pollen, give us a call at 586-525-7992 to learn more. If you would like more about our other services, including outdoor pest control or seeding and aeration, click the link here.