Seasonal allergies are a terrible affliction affecting over 60 million people in the United States. Moreover, even those who do not suffer horrible symptoms may experience some symptoms in peak months. Without a doubt, almost all of us have suffered from a stuffy nose as white pollen fills the air.
Knowing the worst months of pollen will allow you time to prepare, especially if you suffer from severe symptoms. No matter what your remedy for treating your allergies is, most of them take some time to take effect. There are over-the-counter medications that should be taken during the entire growing season, from spring to fall. While local honey will also reduce your symptoms as a natural remedy.
Below, we will highlight the best and worst months for tree pollen. Furthermore, we will detail the trees pollinating in every month so you know you can determine what you are truly allergic too.
The month in which tree pollen picks varies by geographic location. While the months are relatively close together, each geographic region is slightly different (usually by a few weeks). For example, the south enters spring earlier than the north does.
Overall, the peak months for tree pollen are between March and May. You will want to be prepared early for this early allergy peak. When in doubt, seek the advice of a practicing allergist. They will identify the specific trees you are allergic to and put together a treatment plan to relieve your symptoms.
What are the Worst Months for Tree Pollen?
Trees release the most pollen between the months of March and May. Overall, this may contrast with what many believe to be the allergy season. Memorial Day is a major marker for allergy sufferers to begin their yearly regiment. However, in reality, Memorial Day is too late.
The trees are in full bloom by May. In parts of the south, cedar trees begin their bloom in January. To be honest, the higher pollen levels will last well through July. Some tree pollen will hang around well into September. Though, the levels are more tolerable.
The only true reprieve seen from tree pollen in the southern states is in the months of October and November. Once December hits, the cedar trees produce pollen and plague their sufferers.
In the North, there is a longer break from tree pollen. All in all, pollen is not present between the months of October and January. February is when the tree pollen will begin.
What Trees are Blooming Right Now?
Trees release the most pollen between the months of March and May. Trees bloom in different months. In fact, there are many triggers for a tree to bloom, including rainy seasons, temperature, and sunlight. Overall, trees are very specific in their bloom time and most trees only bloom for a few weeks.
Below, we will highlight which trees bloom in each month. If you find yourself suffering in one month more than another, it is probably because you are allergic to that species of tree. Remember that weather and location can vary these details slightly.
Many weather apps provide pollen reports for you to check and some even list the culprit species. Generally speaking, these are updated daily.
January – March
As stated previously, the cedar trees bloom in December in the south. When it reaches January, the pollen from the cedar trees is pretty heavy. Allergies from cedar trees are just like any other season allergy. However, many seem to be bothered by cedar pollen. It is a significant irritant for asthma sufferers as well.
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In the north, January is pollen free since this portion of the country is deep in the throes of winter. While many northern portions of the United States will hold on to winter and a lack of pollen into February, some states will embrace spring.
For the areas ready for Spring in February, the maple and alder trees will begin their pollination.
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Finally, March sees a huge uptick in pollen. The country has officially shaken the wintry grasp and spring is in the air. That being said, almost all the tree species have begun their growth and many are emitting pollen or preparing to emit pollen.
April – June
As the entire country enters spring and relishes in warmer weather, so do the trees. April is the peak of the tree pollen season. All trees are pollinating in this month and ailing allergy sufferers. All in all, the trees releasing the most pollen are the pines and willows.
Though we list these two genera, truly almost all trees are pollinating in this time chunk.
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You will need to prepare for this timeframe if you suffer from seasonal allergies. This three-month timeframe is the heaviest for pollen. With pollen season lasting a couple of months for each type of tree, you need to expect some pollination to continue through the summer months.
July – September
Though the previous three months experienced the most pollen, the summer months are no better. Tree pollen is still prevalent across the country. Although, the early pollinators like alder, maple, and cedar have stopped their process for the year. However, trees like pine and willow hold on strong.
The last tree to pollinate in the United States is the lime tree. In fact, it pollinates well into August. Additionally, the oak tree starts later than many other tree varieties and lasts into late summer.
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As you approach the end of summer, tree pollen will fade away for grass and weed pollen. Though you may suffer from allergy symptoms still, you can no longer blame tree pollen (at least for this year!).
October – December
The timeframe between October and December are the best months for people living with allergy. Throughout the country, tree pollen is non-existent. While other forms of pollen may lurk, it will not be tree pollen. Enjoy this time while you can!
As December closes, the cedar tree will pollinate in the southern states and peak in January. Though the northern states have a few more months of reprieve.
If you are unsure what trees are currently blooming in your local area, there are many weather applications and local reports you can check. This will give you the most accurate and up-to-date information on the pollen. For many allergy suffers and people living with asthma, the information of current pollen producers is vital to managing symptoms and staying healthy.
