Crafting Asthma-Friendly Gardens: A Breath of Fresh Air for Allergy Sufferers

Apr 4
05:16

2024

Thomas Leo Ogren

Thomas Leo Ogren

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Creating an asthma-friendly garden can be a breath of fresh air for those with respiratory sensitivities. By selecting low-pollen plants and designing with health in mind, gardens can become a haven rather than a hazard for individuals with asthma. This article delves into the science and strategies behind cultivating a green space that minimizes allergens and maximizes enjoyment.

Understanding the Link Between Pollen Exposure and Asthma

Recent research has highlighted the potential risks associated with prenatal exposure to high pollen levels. A study published in the journal "Allergy" found that high pollen exposure during the last trimester of pregnancy may increase the risk of asthma in children (Allergy,Crafting Asthma-Friendly Gardens: A Breath of Fresh Air for Allergy Sufferers Articles 2013). This underscores the importance of creating environments that reduce allergen exposure, not just for those currently suffering from asthma but also for the prevention of future cases.

The American Lung Association's Pioneering Efforts

In 1999, the American Lung Association of Virginia constructed their Breathe Easy office with a focus on green construction and sustainable design. They avoided materials that could off-gas harmful chemicals or trigger asthma and allergies. This initiative extended to the landscaping, where they employed the OPALS™ (Ogren Plant Allergy Scale) system to select plants that were low in pollen and allergens, effectively creating the first asthma-friendly garden in the United States.

Expanding Asthma-Friendly Landscaping

The concept of asthma-friendly gardens is gaining traction, with Health Houses across various states incorporating pollen-free landscapes into their green buildings. For example, a new Health House in Pennsylvania is collaborating with the PA Association of Landscapers and Nurserymen to ensure an asthma-friendly environment. Schools are also joining the movement, as seen in Visalia, California, where the Tulare County Asthma Coalition directed the landscaping of a new elementary school to be asthma-friendly.

Twelve Steps to an Asthma-Friendly Garden

  1. Plant Female Trees and Shrubs: These plants do not produce pollen and can trap pollen from other sources.
  2. Choose Low or No Pollen Lawns: Opt for grass varieties like 'Princess 77' Bermuda grass, which is nearly pollen-free.
  3. Select Plants with Low OPALS™ Rankings: Aim for plants rated 1-5 on the scale, with 1 being the best.
  4. Remove High-Pollen Plants: Eliminate any plants with an OPALS™ ranking above 7.
  5. Replace with Low-Pollen Alternatives: Use female plants or those with perfect flowers that produce minimal pollen.
  6. Adapt to Your Area: Use native or well-adapted plants with low allergy rankings.
  7. Embrace Diversity: A diverse garden can reduce issues with insects and molds.
  8. Avoid Strong Fragrances: Fragrant plants can trigger asthma symptoms.
  9. Use Rock or Gravel Mulch: This reduces mold spores compared to bark mulch.
  10. Encourage Wild Birds: Birds eat insects, which can help control mold outbreaks.
  11. Maintain Plant Health: Healthy plants produce less pollen and mold.
  12. Remove Problematic Plants: Replace sickly or bug-prone plants with more robust varieties.

Enjoying Your Asthma-Friendly Garden

To maximize enjoyment, include comfortable seating, wind chimes, bird feeders, and birdbaths. An asthma-friendly garden can be a sanctuary for healthy outdoor relaxation.

For more information on low-allergen gardening, resources are available online or at your local library. Tom Ogren, a leading expert in allergy-free gardening, offers valuable insights in his books and articles. His work has been featured in various publications and media outlets, and he continues to share his knowledge through lectures and his website, Allergy-Free Gardening.

Creating an asthma-friendly garden is not only beneficial for those with respiratory issues but also contributes to a healthier environment for everyone. By following these guidelines, gardeners can cultivate spaces that are both beautiful and beneficial to well-being.