What weeds cause skin problems when strimmed/ handled?
Jude asked:
We have had a problem when strimming our garden in France where my husband had blisters up his arms and felt very ill for several days. We need to identify exactly what caused it.
We have had a problem when strimming our garden in France where my husband had blisters up his arms and felt very ill for several days. We need to identify exactly what caused it.
There are several species of weed that exude a sap which makes your skin photo sensitive, hence the blistering. Consult a gardening website.
Some people have no problem with plants, others are sensitive as can be. I always wear long sleeves to keep my sensitive arms protected.
There are so many possible “weeds”. Things that grow locally for you, may or may not be problems elsewhere. You might go ask at a nearby nursery, where plants are sold, for help.
You might look at the plants in your yard. See if any have tiny hairs on them, and avoid those. Any plants related to thistles, or stinging nettles, could be a problem.
Gloves, long pants, long sleeves are a good idea.