Temperatures could reach 24C in Scotland this weekend as pollen levels rise sharply across the UK.
15:16, 21 May 2026Updated 15:38, 21 May 2026
One common gardening habit could worsen hay fever symptoms as temperatures rise(Image: Getty Images)
Scots preparing to enjoy the warm bank holiday weather are being warned that one common gardening habit could leave hay fever symptoms far worse this weekend.
The warning comes as temperatures are expected to climb to around 24C across parts of Scotland, and into the 30s down south, with forecasters predicting next week could bring the hottest day of the year so far. At the same time, pollen levels are expected to rise sharply from Friday, May 22, onwards, creating difficult conditions for allergy sufferers.
Experts say many households are likely to rush into garden maintenance as soon as the sunshine arrives, but cutting grass during peak pollen conditions could increase exposure both outdoors and inside the home.
New figures from ECOVACS show online searches in the UK for “lawn mower” have jumped by 383 percent over the last three months, reaching their highest point this month as people prepare gardens for summer.
Alexandra Alguel, smart living expert at ECOVACS, said a sudden burst of mowing after weeks of cooler weather can make matters worse for people sensitive to pollen.
She said: “When the weather turns warm after a cooler spell, there’s a natural urge to head outside, enjoy the sunshine and quickly get gardens looking presentable again. That often leads to what we’d call a ‘sun rush mow’ a sudden burst of lawn care done in one go.
An expert warned that mowing lawns during warm weather and high pollen levels can make hay fever symptoms worse.(Image: Getty Images)
“But this kind of panic maintenance during peak heat and rising pollen levels can be counterproductive, as it disturbs more grass particles at the exact time they’re circulating most heavily outdoors.”
Hay fever symptoms are commonly triggered by pollen released from grass, trees and weeds, with warm, dry weather often creating ideal conditions for pollen to spread more easily through the air.
Experts warned that mowing lawns during hotter periods can stir up even more grass particles and allergens, increasing irritation for those already struggling with sneezing, itchy eyes and congestion.
Alguel said many people also underestimate how easily pollen is carried back into the house after spending time outside. She added: “Those particles don’t stay in the garden. They’re easily brought back inside on clothing, shoes and pets, where they settle on floors and soft furnishings.”
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According to the expert, timing can make a significant difference when carrying out garden work during periods of high pollen. She explained: “Warm, dry conditions often coincide with higher pollen dispersal, which is why this weekend in particular is significant. If possible, it’s best to avoid mowing during the hottest part of the day and instead choose earlier or later in the day when conditions are calmer.”
Leaving lawns untouched for long periods before cutting them can also create additional problems.
Alguel said: “Leaving lawns to become overgrown before cutting can make the eventual mow more disruptive, especially during peak pollen periods, increasing exposure for hay fever sufferers.”
To help reduce pollen exposure over the bank holiday weekend, experts have advised homeowners to take a more gradual approach to lawn care rather than attempting major garden clearances during the warmest part of the day.
One recommendation is to keep grass maintenance regular and consistent instead of allowing gardens to become heavily overgrown before tackling them all at once.
Experts say smaller and more frequent cuts can help avoid large bursts of grass particles during periods when pollen levels are already high.
Reducing time spent carrying out intensive outdoor gardening tasks can also help limit exposure. Automated lawn mowers and similar smart garden devices may help maintain lawns without requiring long periods outdoors in peak pollen conditions.
People are also being reminded not to overlook indoor pollen build up during warmer weather.
Grass particles and pollen can easily enter homes on shoes, clothes and pet fur before settling on carpets, sofas and flooring. Experts recommend cleaning floors more regularly during high pollen periods to help reduce indoor exposure.
The Met Office expects warm and settled weather to continue into the bank holiday weekend, with sunshine and dry conditions forecast across many parts of the country.
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