In the Garden

If you're allergic to pollens, it's impossible, regardless of what anyone says, to plant an entirely "allergy-free" garden. Pollens can drift hundreds of miles from their original source as well as a few hundred feet from the garden next door. Still, there are some moves you can make in order to garden in relative comfort.

Take the right medications. During garden season, take a second-generation, nonsedating antihistamine every day even if you aren't having symptoms. You might also ask your doctor whether you're a good candidate for immunotherapy.

Wear the right equipment. That would be a face mask to filter pollen grains from the air before they hit your nose and mouth. You may feel silly, but wear one anyhow (consider it like wearing a helmet when riding a bike--unflattering, perhaps, but a mandatory safety practice). These days, you can find a variety of comfortable and effective face masks. If your eyes bother you, try goggles or wraparound sunglasses. And try smearing Vaseline inside your nose; it can help stop pollen and mold spores from settling on the lining of your nose.

Watch the clock. Pollens are at their worst in the afternoon during the spring and in the morning during the fall. So save your gardening for the time of day when they are at their lowest levels.

Check the weather. If it's windy and dry, stay inside. You're better off gardening on still, even sultry days when there is less airborne pollen. The best day is one that's misty, with just a bit of drizzle to keep down the dust and pollen.