An Assessment for the Using Pollen Allergenic Woody Plants in Landscape Design: the Case of Ankara

Abstract

Mistakes made in the design of urban green areas and in the selection of ornamental plants cause pollen allergy, which is one of the most common diseases in urban populations. This study assesses the pollen characteristics and allergenic effects of the species of woody trees, shrubs, and bushes planted in urban green areas in Ankara city center in the context of landscape architecture activities. A list of plant species with allergenic pollen is drawn up, together with their flowering periods and other relevant properties, and a number of points are identified to be taken into consideration for reducing the effects of pollen allergic plants and for planning and designing healthy green areas. Although there are many studies on allergenic plants in Turkey, studies on the use of allergenic plants in urban design have been rare. For this reason, the present study also addresses essential principles for reducing the effects of allergenic plants in design and for planning and designing healthy green areas. The study will be beneficial both for the environment and for the creation of green areas sensitive to human health.