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The Worst Plants and Trees for Allergies

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Some oak, hickory, and ash trees produce the worst pollen for allergies in Maryland on the East Coast. These trees are common allergens in the region, particularly during the spring. The high pollen count in Maryland can contribute to severe allergy symptoms, especially from tree pollen. Other common allergens in Maryland include Bermuda grass, wormwood, sagebrush, and orache. It’s important to be aware of these allergens, especially during the spring, and take necessary precautions to minimize exposure to pollen, such as limiting outdoor activities during high pollen count, keeping tree branches trimmed, and wearing a mask outdoors. Some of the worst plants and trees for allergies that produce pollen for allergies in Maryland and on the East Coast include:

Pollen Producing Trees

  • Oak: A significant allergen in Maryland, known for producing large amounts of pollen that can trigger allergic reactions such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
  • Hickory: Another common culprit contributing to the high pollen levels during the spring season.
  • Ash: Known to release substantial amounts of pollen, potentially causing severe allergy symptoms.
  • Maple: A prevalent allergen, particularly during the spring, when its pollen can lead to discomfort for allergy sufferers.
  • Cedar, Willow, Walnut, and Mulberry: These trees are also recognized for their allergenic pollen, contributing to the overall pollen burden in the region.

Maryland is known for its challenging allergy seasons, mainly due to the prevalence of various trees, weeds, and grasses that produce high pollen levels. Understanding the specific plants and trees that contribute to these allergies can be crucial for individuals seeking to manage their symptoms effectively.

Weeds That Produce Pollen

In addition to trees, various weeds significantly impact allergy sufferers in Maryland, with ragweed being a well-known allergen. Other problematic weeds include orache, wormwood, amaranth, sagebrush, and Russian thistle, which can cause allergic reactions, especially during late summer and fall.

Grasses That Produce Pollen

During the summer, grass pollen becomes a prevalent allergen in Maryland, with Bermuda grass, bent grass, fescue, rye, sweet vernal grass, and timothy grass being the primary culprits.

Individuals in Maryland need to be aware of these allergenic plants and trees and their respective pollination seasons to take necessary precautions and manage their allergy symptoms effectively. This awareness can help plan outdoor activities, implement preventive measures, and seek appropriate treatment during high pollen seasons.

Other common grasses that cause allergies, particularly in the United States, include:

  • Bahia
  • Bermuda: Known to be very allergenic.
  • Fescue: Also considered very allergenic.
  • Johnson
  • Kentucky blue
  • Orchard: Noted for its high allergenicity.
  • Rye: Another highly allergenic grass.
  • Sweet vernal: Recognized for its high allergenicity.
  • Timothy: Also known to be very allergenic.

Tips On How To Reduce Pollen Exposure

These grasses are significant triggers for grass pollen allergies, causing symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, cough, and, in some cases, allergic asthma. Individuals with grass pollen allergies need to be aware of these common culprits and take necessary measures to manage their symptoms, especially during the peak pollen seasons.

To reduce exposure to grass pollen allergies, consider the following measures:

  • Monitor Pollen Counts: Stay informed about the local pollen counts and plan outdoor activities accordingly.
  • Wear Protective Clothing: When outdoors during high pollen seasons, wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts to minimize skin exposure to pollen.
  • Keep Doors and Windows Closed: To prevent pollen from entering your home, keep doors and windows closed, especially during peak pollen times.
  • Shower and Change Clothes: After spending time outdoors, shower and change into fresh clothes to remove any pollen that may have been collected on your body and clothing.
  • Mow the Grass Carefully: If you must mow the lawn, consider wearing a mask to reduce pollen inhalation. It’s also helpful to mow the grass in the evening when pollen levels are lower.
  • Medication: Consider pre-medicating with an antihistamine and corticosteroid nasal spray two hours before exposure to the allergen. For eye allergies, use eye drops as needed. Over-the-counter and prescription medications can also help reduce or prevent grass allergy symptoms.
  • Immunotherapy: For long-term management, consider immunotherapy (allergy shots) as a treatment option, especially if other measures are not providing sufficient relief.

By implementing these strategies, individuals can reduce their exposure to grass pollen and alleviate the associated allergy symptoms. For more information on allergies, visit WebMD.

Paradise Landscape and Hardscapes specialize in lawn care, including weed removal services and weekly grass-cutting services in Annapolis and the surrounding areas. If you need a hand with lawn care projects to help ease your allergy sensitivities, contact us by filling out our FREE Estimate form.

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A Guide to the Most Enchanting Christmas Trees in Annapolis

Step into the enchanting world of Annapolis, MD, where the holiday season unfolds in a symphony of lights, laughter, and the unmistakable scent of evergreens. Have you ever wondered which Christmas trees reign supreme in our charming city, adorning homes and streets with festive splendor? Brace yourself for a festive journey as we unveil the magical tapestry of Annapolis’ most cherished Christmas trees. From the timeless Fraser firs that exude aromatic warmth to the classic allure of Scotch pines, each tree holds a story, a tradition, and a touch of local magic. Join us on a quest to discover the secret gems that transform our city into a winter wonderland. Get ready to be captivated by the holiday spirit and embark on a seasonal adventure that will leave you yearning for the joyous sights and scents of Annapolis’ iconic Christmas trees! If you’re having trouble deciding, here is a guide to the most enchanting Christmas trees in Annapolis!

Americans purchase approximately 20 million real Christmas trees during the holiday season, primarily from retail lots and Christmas tree farms. Immerse yourself in the sights and scents of Annapolis’ iconic Christmas trees, where the season’s spirit comes alive in every evergreen.

The selection of evergreens available depends on your location, as there are numerous native varieties in the U.S. If you’re having trouble deciding, here are some of the most popular Christmas tree options.

 

Fraser Fir

Recognized as one of the most favored Christmas trees, the Fraser fir is resilient enough to endure being cut and transported over long distances. It is native to the southern regions and thrives at elevations above 5,000 feet. The tree boasts excellent needle retention and emits a delightful piney scent.

Trivia Fact: It is named after Scottish botanist John Fraser, who explored the southern Appalachians in the late 1700s.

 

Douglas Fir

Common throughout the central and northern U.S., the Douglas fir is not a “true” fir and possesses its unique species classification. Distinguished by downward-hanging cones, it releases a sweet scent when crushed.

Trivia Fact: The tree is named after David Douglas, a 19th-century researcher.

 

Balsam Fir

A picturesque pyramidal tree with short, flat, and long-lasting aromatic needles, the Balsam fir shares similarities with the Fraser fir. While some consider them extensions of the same species, balsams prefer cool climates and are native to the northeastern U.S. and Canada. They are named for the balsam or resin used to treat wounds during the Civil War.

 

Colorado Blue Spruce

Primarily known as an ornamental landscape tree, the Colorado blue spruce features dark green to powdery blue needles and a pyramidal form when young. Often sold as a living Christmas tree with an entire root ball, it is famous for post-holiday planting. It was chosen as the official live White House Christmas tree in 1978 and is the state tree of Utah and Colorado.

 

Scotch Pine

Originating from Europe, the Scotch pine is a popular Christmas tree due to its needle retention and excellent water retention when cut. With stiff branches and dark green needles, it emits a long-lasting aroma throughout the holiday season.

 

Eastern Red Cedar

A favorite in the southern U.S., the Eastern red cedar belongs to the juniper family. Its natural pyramidal crown requires minimal pruning, making it a preferred choice at cut-your-own tree farms. Dark, shiny green needles give it a distinctive appearance.

 

White Spruce

Native to the northeastern U.S. and Canada, the white spruce is a typical Christmas tree variety in the region. While it sheds needles, its thick branches are suitable for heavy ornaments.

 

Eastern White Pine

Valued for centuries as a timber tree, the Eastern white pine is popular in the mid-Atlantic states as a Christmas tree. With minimal scent, excellent needle retention, and sturdy branches, it caters to those with tree-related allergies.

 

White or Concolor Fir

Also known as the concolor fir, this tree, native to California, features long, blue-green needles, excellent needle retention, and a pleasant pine scent.

 

Virginia Pine

A recent addition to Christmas tree lots, particularly in the South, the Virginia pine was developed as a heat-tolerant alternative to the Scotch pine. It sports wide tufts of soft needles ranging from dark green to gray.

Interesting Facts about Christmas Trees

  1. Ancient Origins: The tradition of using evergreen trees in winter celebrations dates back to ancient times, with cultures such as the Egyptians, Romans, and Vikings using evergreens as symbols of life during winter festivals.
  2. German Tradition: The use of Christmas trees as we know it is often attributed to 16th-century Germany. It is said that Martin Luther, the Protestant reformer, was the first to add lighted candles to a tree to recreate the beauty of stars twinkling amidst evergreen branches.
  3. Royal Christmas Trees: Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, who had German heritage, are often credited with popularizing the Christmas tree in England during the 19th century. A drawing of the royal family celebrating around a Christmas tree was published in the Illustrated London News in 1848.
  4. First Christmas Tree in America: German settlers recorded the first Christmas tree in the United States in Pennsylvania in the 1830s. However, the custom became widespread in the mid-19th century.
  5. Rockefeller Center Tradition: The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree tradition in New York City began during the Great Depression in 1931 when construction workers set up a small, decorated tree. Today, the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony is a major holiday event.
  6. Environmental Benefits: Real Christmas trees are biodegradable, and many communities offer recycling programs to turn used trees into mulch. Additionally, Christmas tree farms contribute to green spaces and provide habitats for wildlife.
  7. Tallest Christmas Tree: The tallest Christmas tree ever recorded was a Douglas fir that measured 221 feet tall. It was erected and decorated in 1950 in Seattle, Washington.
  8. Artificial vs. Real Debate: There is an ongoing debate about the environmental impact of artificial vs. real Christmas trees. While artificial trees are reusable, they are often made from non-biodegradable materials. Real trees can have a lower environmental impact when sourced sustainably and recycled properly.
  9. State Trees: Some U.S. states have designated official state trees for Christmas celebrations. For example, the Colorado blue spruce is the state tree of both Utah and Colorado.
  10. Unique Decorations: People worldwide decorate Christmas trees with unique items and traditional ornaments and lights. In Iceland, for instance, hanging small, figurine-like ornaments representing elves is common.

Remember, the traditions and facts about Christmas trees can vary across cultures and regions!

What are the most popular types of Christmas Trees in Annapolis?

The popularity of Christmas tree varieties can vary depending on local preferences, availability, and the region’s climate. In Annapolis, Maryland, you’re likely to find a variety of Christmas trees, both natural and artificial. Some popular choices for Christmas trees in Maryland and the mid-Atlantic region include:

  1. Fraser Fir: Known for its excellent needle retention and pleasing aroma, the Fraser Fir is a popular choice for Christmas trees. It’s well-suited to the climate in Maryland.
  2. Douglas Fir: This tree is commonly found in the central and northern parts of the United States, including Maryland. When crushed, it has a sweet scent and is known for its soft needles.
  3. White Pine: Eastern white pine is valued for its long, soft needles and minimal scent, making it a good option for those with allergies.
  4. Blue Spruce: While native to the western United States, the Colorado blue spruce is often planted ornamentally in Maryland and may be available as a Christmas tree. It has distinctive blue-green needles.
  5. Scotch Pine: Though not native to the United States, Scotch pine is a popular Christmas tree species known for its sturdy branches and excellent needle retention.

Local Christmas tree farms, retail lots, and shops in Annapolis may offer various trees, and the availability could depend on the specific farm or seller. It’s a good idea to check with local nurseries, Christmas tree farms, or retailers in the Annapolis area to see which varieties are prevalent and well-suited for holiday decorating.

As we wind down our festive journey through Annapolis, MD, it’s clear that our city takes Christmas trees and holiday decorating seriously! More than just decorations—they are living traditions, each with its own story and charm. From the enduring Fraser firs that grace our homes with aromatic warmth to the steadfast Scotch pines that punctuate our streets, these trees weave a tapestry of holiday magic unique to our beloved city. As you embark on your quest for the perfect Christmas tree, may the sights and scents of Annapolis’ iconic evergreens linger in your memories, creating a lasting connection to the season’s enchantment. Here’s to a joyous and memorable holiday season filled with the spirit of Annapolis’ cherished Christmas trees!

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Tree Care In the Winter

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As we roll into the fall, we start to ponder tree care in the winter. During the winter, it’s critical to pay attention to your trees and shrubs in Maryland, especially if you live in a rural area. With most woody plants dormant during this time of year, pruning back dying or intrusive branches is more viable. Pruning trees is crucial since well-pruned plants produce greater fruit and flowers. It also helps your plants defend against pesky insects and diseases. Team Paradise is here with helpful advice on why, where, and when you should start pruning your trees.

The tree is a symbol of life – it’s green, full of leaves and provides shade. When winter comes around, the tree sheds its foliage to protect itself from the cold. This makes tree care in the winter different than tree care at other times of year. Let’s discuss these factors in detail so you know if now is a good time to plant a tree in your yard.

Decide On Tree Type – Evergreen or Deciduous

Consider the kind of tree you want to plant before deciding whether to undertake it in the winter. Spruce and pine trees, for example, never shed their needles. Evergreens have a smaller planting window than deciduous trees. This is because they need the nutrients they can absorb before the ground freezes. The key is to plant evergreens when the soil is no lower than 60 degrees.
 
Deciduous trees, which go dormant in the winter and shed their leaves, need less energy to grow in the winter months. This implies that when you seed them, the temperature may be cooler. Plant deciduous trees in the fall or early spring before they begin to bud, when the soil is 50 degrees or higher.

Climate Zone

The climate has a big influence on when you may plant a tree in your yard. Throughout Annapolis and most of northern United States, fall is the best time to plant trees. The heat of summer has passed, but the searing frosts of winter have yet to appear.
 
But, in more southern regions, you have more time to plant trees. These states tend to include In Florida, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina.

Upcoming Weather Forecast

Seasonal and short-term weather can all have an impact on your ability to plant a tree, as well as your climate. Even if you live in a northern location, a particularly harsh winter may be ideal for planting trees. Yet, owing to an early September snowstorm, you must wait until later to plant new trees.

Early, Mid, or Late Winter

The winter season is three phases. The early part of the winter season is like fall. This makes it ideal for tree relocation. When the ground freezes or snow falls, though, it’s best to wait until late winter or early spring. New saplings are more vulnerable to frost damage. Their roots can also dry out if planted midwinter.

Special Considerations

Here are some pointers to help your sapling survive the winter. This is good information for any type of tree you want to grow:
 
  • Keep watering: Every few days, water the earth surrounding the young tree until it is frozen. Give it a bigger watering than usual before a major freeze.
  • Mulch: Roots in particular are harmed by the freeze-thaw cycle. Mulch might insulate the surface and maintain a more constant temperature. It also inhibits evaporation, allowing the roots to receive water a little easier.
  • Stake the tree: Windy conditions during the early spring might impede a sapling’s growth. To assist the tree grow straight and true, bind it to three or four supports.
  • Consider applying anti-desiccant: Evergreens that include broadleaf are protected from desiccation (drying out) during the winter with anti-desiccants, which give a waxy covering.

A Few More Tips for Tree Care in The Winter

  • Don’t fertilize: You don’t want a sapling to sprout new limbs right after being planted. Compost and bone meal are both acceptable, but wait until the soil is fertilized in the spring.
  • Don’t prune: Transplanting is tough enough for a sapling without you taking any of its branches away. This occurs if a limb is damaged while being carried and must be cut off.
  • Protect from deer: Deer repellents are one of the most efficient deer deterrents available. To keep your young tree protected from deer browsing, apply a deer repellent to it. Install a protective tube over the trunk to prevent deer rubbing their antlers on it to avoid damage.
Trees and shrubs are susceptible to harsh winters. Cold weather can desiccate leaves, bark, and branches, as well as flower buds and roots.Humans and animals contribute to winter tree maintenance issues in their own way; salt on the road and sidewalk destroyed soil health, and animals generally eat tree bark and twigs as a result of winter food shortages. These threats, especially when combined, can damage your trees and plants if you aren’t prepared!
Thanks to this guide, you should now know whether you can plant a tree this time of year. Feel free to contact our amazing team at Paradise Landscape and Hardscape! We are happy to answer any questions you might have. Spring will be here before you know it, so it’s wise to start planning. Contact us by clicking the button below to request a FREE JOB ESTIMATE today!
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The Best Low Maintenance Plants

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Is your green thumb not so green? Are you looking for the best the best low maintenance plants to plant in your yard? This is a great way to add both interest, appeal, and functional use to your garden. If you have plants that need a lot of attention, this can become a hassle. Most likely you are busy and don’t have time to be trimming, fertilizing, pruning or cutting the grass. We can help you with your landscape gardening efforts in Annapolis. We can also help guide you on purchasing the best low maintenance plants for your yard.
 
So we decided to put together a list of the best low maintenance plants in Annapolis. If you want to dive right in, these plants and shrubs make great choices for your landscape.
 
It’s important to keep in mind that the proper installation of these plants is key. Some plants are shade lovers while other like hanging out in the sun. We have decades of experience and knowledge with plants and gardens in Annapolis. If you need a hand, fill out our quick estimate form by clicking the button at the end of this post.
 

12 of the Best of Low Maintenance Plants in Annapolis

 

Low Maintenance Trees

 
Low maintenance trees to be relatively disease and pest-resistant. They also don’t need lots of care, such as regular pruning, to fall under the category of low maintenance trees. While there is no such thing as a tree that needs zero care, these 4 won’t give you lots of extra work:
 

Japanese Maple Trees in Annapolis

 
Japanese Maple trees are famous for their bright fall foliage. They come in many varieties. Some of which are airy and upright and others that are compact and domed. On the whole, most all Japanese Maple make low maintenance trees for your yard.
 

Serviceberry Trees in Annapolis

 
Serviceberry trees are deciduous members of the Rosaceae family. The bloom in all four seasons. Spring produces beautiful blooms. Winter produces fruit. In the fall they have gorgeous fall color foliage. Growing and caring for a Serviceberry tree does not take a lot of work. It is a very cold-hardy tree. It handles the winter well and brings an interesting unique design to your landscape.
 

Crape Myrtle Trees in Annapolis

 
The Crape Myrtle is one of the best known low maintenance trees in Annapolis. Natives Annapolitans know the Crape Myrtle as the “lilac of the South.” It’s flowers are striking and creates a stunning addition to a landscape. It is also low maintenance as far as flowering trees go. It only needs approximately 30 to 60 minutes of pruning each year and it will look and perform well for you. Crape Myrtles come in a variety of colors and will grow to vary in size when they mature.
 

Magnolia Trees in Annapolis

 
Hello sweet Magnolia. How do we love you? Magnolia trees can be evergreen or deciduous. Both types of these trees have large and striking blossoms. These trees are hardy and adaptable. Though they prefer slightly acidic soil, they will adapt to your natural soil, even if it’s sandy or heavy in clay. These trees often serve as small ornamental accent plants. But they have varieties that will grow into medium-sized trees.
 

Low Maintenance Shrubs

 
When looking at low maintenance shrubs, we’re looking at varieties that don’t need a lot of tending to. These are some of the best low maintenance plants and shrubs for the Annapolis region. They are drought-tolerant and generally resistant to problems with disease or pests. Here are 4 that are adaptable to most landscapes:
 

The Burning Bush

 
This shrub is a bright crimson color in the fall. Native to Asia, this large bush will adapt well to almost any site or soil condition. It also requires minimal care. While it’s almost wholly hands-off, occasional pruning will help keep its size down if you have a tight space. This medium to large-sized shrub has many uses. As a result, it can even create excellent privacy screens during spring through fall.
 

The Nandina

 
This hardy is nicknamed “heavenly bamboo” for its ability to thrive almost anywhere. It also resembles bamboo. Nandina has evergreen tendencies. It also has a unique color combination and leaves that change from green to reddish purple. Different cultivars will grow as small or medium-sized shrubs.
 

The Azalea

 
The Azalea is a member of the Rhododendron family. Azaleas produce showy and fragrant blooms in the spring. Additionally, they have many different color blooms such as white, lavender, orange, gold, red, and purple. They are easy to care for and need very little attention. Plant them in the right area of your yard! They need moist, but well-drained soil. Azaleas are slow growers so these are ideal choices for tighter spots. With regular pruning, it’s easy to keep them confined within most spaces.
 

The Hydrangea

 
Generally speaking, hydrangeas are versatile and easy to grow. There are many varieties of this flowering shrub. Oakleaf is one of the easiest to care for and can tolerate cold weather. They can also tolerate the sun and withstand drought. But all varieties of hydrangea are low maintenance and produce stunning blooms. These shrubs vary in size from 3-8 ft.
 

Low Maintenance Flowers

 
Choosing low-maintenance perennials will help color to your landscape. They will also provide a little curb appeal without adding a bunch of extra work. Perennials will re-grow each season. Annual flowers last one growing season and need to be replanted.
Here are 4 that you might want to consider if you’re looking for low-maintenance flowers:
 

Daylilies in Annapolis

 
Daylilies bloom quickly and are easy to grow. They are incredibly drought-tolerant and need minimal (if any) watering. Color variations include yellow, gold, orange, red, and purple.
 

Salvia flowers in Annapolis

 
Salvia is of the largest genus in the Mint family. It is also one of the best low maintenance plants in Annapolis. Perennial Salvias are easy to grow and perform well in our local climate. We love the Russian Sage. It’s a low maintenance perennial that produces tall spires of bluish flowers.

 

Lavender plants for your Garden in Annapolis

 
Lavender is an attractive flower and smells so good. It has a muted purple color. It also has a distinct scent, which used as a calming essential oil! Lavender is not fussy to grow. It’s a tough woody perennial that requires very little care. Lavender only needs well-drained soil and some room to grow and it will thrive.
 

Coreopsis flowers in Annapolis

 
Known as “Tickseed,” Coreopsis is a bright and showy flower. It can surive in almost any soil. There are more than 100 species. Most all are low maintenance and drought-tolerant.
 
Knowing which plants to incorporate is one important piece of the puzzle—but it’s not everything. It’s also a matter of incorporating them in a way that makes sense.
 
We hope this article has shed some light on the best low maintenance plants in the Annapolis, MD region. It’s important to understand that while these plants low maintenance, they might not thrive on your property.
 
There are tons of other options to consider! A beautiful, low maintenance landscape can add tremendous value to your home.
 
If you need a hand, we’d love to help. Fill out our quick estimate form by clicking the button below to get started! You can also view our YouTube channel for updates!

 

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