When does the pollen season end?

When Does Tree Pollen Season End?

• Answer:

  As trees bloom each spring, they release pollen, which can remain active for several months. While tree pollen is a natural part of a tree's production, it can wreak havoc on the sinuses of allergy sufferers. Tree pollen season lasts through much of spring and summer, with trees producing pollen at different times in different regions of the country. Tree Pollen Season When it comes to pollen-producing plants, trees are the plants that start sending pollen into the air earliest in the year, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Since trees begin blooming at different times in different areas of the country, pollen season may begin anywhere from January in some of the southernmost regions of the U.S. to June in some of the northernmost regions. Since the pollen season lasts roughly three to four weeks for each tree, according to Allergy Cosmos, the earlier in the season tree pollen season starts, the earlier it ends. Climate Factors Though you can usually count on pollen season to begin and end at approximately the same times every year, some climate factors can effect tree pollen season. If your region of the country experiences an early spring with ample moisture and warmth, the trees may begin to bloom several weeks earlier than usual. While an early tree pollen season can be unfortunate for those allergy-sufferers who are unprepared, the season will still only last three to four weeks, which means that it will end earlier in the season, as well. Tree Pollen Allergies The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences has identified those groups of trees that are most likely to cause allergic reactions in people who have issues with tree pollen. Some common trees that have pollen which prompt allergic reactions in sensitive people include elm, walnut, sycamore, maple, cottonwood, poplar and willow. According to the institute, tree pollen can travel many miles, so you cannot generally avoid pollen, even if you don't plant trees on your own property. Avoiding Pollen Many weather-reporting websites and TV stations include tree pollen counts in their news broadcasts, which can help pollen allergy-sufferers avoid the outdoors on days when pollen levels are especially high. Pollen levels are also higher in the mornings, between the hours of 5 and 10 a.m., than in the afternoons and evenings, so allergy sufferers should try to stay indoors, with the windows closed, or at least avoid outdoor activities during those hours.