Finding plants for the right conditions can be a challenge. Moisture levels, sun exposure, wind directions, and soil type should all be taken into consideration when selecting plants. However, once the plants are in the ground and thriving, there is another condition we are reminded to consider: allergies. When a client tells us that allergies are a major concern for them, we can consult the OPALS ™  to help us design gardens that inspire awe instead of irritating their sinuses. 

What is OPALS ™ ?

OPALS ™  stands for Ogren Plant Allergy Scale. This ranking system first published by horticulturist Tom Ogren in 2000 gave common trees, grasses, flowers, and shrubs a score based on how likely they are to trigger allergies. OPALS ™  takes a few things into account including pollen, odor, and contact allergies. However, the scale’s focus is on pollen production and dispersal. Plants with high wind-dispersed pollen production are usually closer to the high range (10), while plants that produce little to no pollen are closer to the bottom of the scale (1). Translated into landscape design, this usually comes down to choosing more female and monoecious plants over their male counterparts. It may also look like including more insect pollinated plants instead of exclusively wind pollinated plants.  

Taking a Regional Look

While the OPALS ™ is a very helpful tool, it is also broad. It includes a wide range of plants commonly used in urban landscaping from across the US and abroad. In the drawings featured below, our designer selected plants native to our region with lower-rankings on the OPALS ™ at the request of our client who struggled with allergies. This design still achieves the aesthetic goals of color throughout the growing season, winter interest, and textural interest while being safer for our client to enjoy. And yes… the front yard is a labyrinth! 

The Design

There are a wide variety of native plants available that are low on the OPALS ™. After selecting for allergen concerns our designer made sure to include a variety of heights, textures, and colors to create a garden that would remain vibrant and interesting throughout the growing season. Having a beautiful space you can fully enjoy does not have to be complicated. Let us help you create something beautiful in your yard to turn your sneeze into a smile. Request a free estimate today!