Weathering the Seasons
May 20, 2026 by Keely Knopp
Leaves have returned to the trees of Western North Carolina, unfurling lush a carpet of new growth over the mountains, shading both hills and hollers in vibrant green.
Tree pollen season is winding down, but your allergy symptoms may not let up just yet — and grass pollen is likely to blame. In much of the United States, botanical allergens arrive in three waves: tree pollen from February through the end of May, grass pollen from late spring through summer, and weed pollen from late summer through fall. In Asheville and the surrounding area, grass pollen season typically peaks in May and continues through June.
The most common allergy-triggering grasses in our region include Bermuda, Timothy, orchard, Kentucky bluegrass and sweet vernal grass. Like the hardwood trees that came before them, these grasses produce pollen that is light, small and easily carried on the wind — meaning you don’t have to be near a field to feel the effects.
Inhaling grass pollen can cause symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, congestion and a cough or sore throat. Some people also experience skin reactions, like hives or eczema flare-ups, which are more commonly associated with grass than with tree pollen. Below, we’ve compiled a list of tips for limiting your exposure to grass pollen during peak season.
Outdoor Exposure
With warmer temperatures and longer days, May is one of the best months to be outside in Western North Carolina. But for those with grass allergies, it pays to be strategic about when and how you spend time outdoors.
When possible, avoid going outside in the late morning to midday hours, when grass pollen counts tend to peak. Mowing the lawn — or being nearby when someone else mows — can send pollen counts surging, so consider delegating yard work during peak season or wearing a mask if you must do it yourself.
Pollen exposure is typically lower:
- on cool mornings.
- in high humidity.
- after rainfall.
Exposure is at its highest:
- on warm, dry afternoons.
- in windy weather.
- immediately after grass is cut.
To reduce exposure while outside, wear a hat or scarf to cover your hair, and remove your shoes on the porch to avoid tracking in pollen. When returning home for the day, change into “indoor clothes” immediately, and shower if you’ve been outside for an extended period. Pets who have been in the yard should be wiped down or bathed when coming inside. Remember to keep your windows closed and avoid drying laundry outside.
General Wellness
Many of the habits that are good for general health — exercising regularly, getting enough sleep and staying hydrated — can help against allergies too, giving your immune system a strong base to fight with.
Next year, plan ahead by taking allergy medicines and treatments at least two weeks before grass pollen season begins. Over-the-counter medicines work best when they’re already in your system before symptoms start. For those with asthma, always make sure you bring an inhaler with you outside — grass pollen is a known asthma trigger and warrants extra caution.
Keeping the skin moisturized can also help, as it creates a protective barrier that is harder for allergens to breach.
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If you’re taking precautions against spring allergies and still can’t find relief, Mercy Urgent Care is here to help. As Western North Carolina’s only independent, nonprofit urgent care network, Mercy is committed to providing compassionate care for those suffering from sniffling, sneezing or any other non-life-threatening illness or injury this season. Visit us at any of our eight centers in Asheville, Boone, Burnsville, Columbus, Waynesville and Weaverville.
