Pollen Allergy Season in Europe 2025

Seasonal Pollen Calendar For Europe

Pollen season in Europe varies significantly depending on the region, plant type, and climate conditions. While some areas experience early spring pollen, others may have a longer season extending into late autumn. Understanding the timeline can help the pollen allergy sufferers plan their activities and take preventive measures.

• Spring (March–May) Tree Pollen:
  • Birch: One of the most allergenic trees in Northern and Central Europe, birch pollen peaks in April and May, causing hay fever in millions of people.
  • Alder: Releases pollen slightly earlier, often in March and early April, particularly in Scandinavia.
  • Hazel: Common in Northern Europe, hazel pollen is usually one of the first allergens in spring.
  • Oak: Produces pollen from late March to May, contributing to seasonal allergies in urban and rural areas.
  • Regional notes: Northern countries like Finland and Sweden have short but intense pollen seasons, while Central Europe sees a more extended spring pollen period.
• Summer (June–July) – Grass Pollen:
  • Timothy Grass: A major trigger of hay fever, particularly in Central and Northern Europe.
  • Ryegrass: Widespread across Europe, ryegrass pollen peaks in early summer.
  • Orchard Grass: Common in rural areas; its pollen is light and easily airborne.
  • Impact on humans: Grass pollen is among the most potent allergens, responsible for sneezing, itchy eyes, and asthma flare-ups. People living in suburban or rural areas with large meadows are often more affected.
  • Environmental influence: Grass pollen levels can rise with warmer temperatures, longer daylight hours, and minimal rainfall.
• Autumn (August–September) – Weed Pollen:
  • Ragweed: Highly allergenic and spreading in Central and Southern Europe, including Hungary, Italy, France, and the Balkans. Ragweed pollen peaks in mid to late September.
  • Mugwort: Often found in temperate regions, releasing pollen in late summer.
  • Plantain: Common in urban areas, plantain pollen may trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.
  • Regional variations: Southern Europe may experience pollen from weeds later into October due to warmer climates, extending the allergy season.
• Special Considerations:
  • Southern Europe: Olive, cypress, and plane trees can contribute to early spring allergies.
  • Northern Europe: Shorter but intense tree pollen season, especially birch and alder.
  • Urban areas: Cities often have higher pollen concentrations due to a combination of plant density and air pollution, which can increase allergenicity.
  • Climate change: Rising temperatures and increased CO₂ levels are lengthening pollen seasons, causing earlier starts and later finishes, sometimes by several weeks. This means allergy sufferers may experience symptoms for longer periods than previous generations.
• Practical takeaway:
  • Allergy sufferers should monitor local pollen forecasts, know which plants are active during specific months, and take preventive measures accordingly.
  • Awareness of seasonal patterns allows for better planning of outdoor activities, medication use, and lifestyle adjustments during peak pollen periods.

Pollen, Climate Change, and Urban Life

Climate change is altering the pollen landscape in Europe in worrying ways. Warmer temperatures and higher levels of carbon dioxide allow plants to grow faster and produce more pollen. Research shows that pollen seasons are starting earlier and lasting longer, sometimes by several weeks. 

For example, birch pollen appears in early spring in Scandinavia, while ragweed season lasts into autumn in Central Europe. High pollen counts are also being recorded across the continent, increasing the severity of symptoms for allergy sufferers.

In addition, urban environments amplify the effects of pollen. Pollution particles in the air can interact with pollen, making it more allergenic and harder for the body to tolerate. 

This explains why people living in cities often report stronger allergy symptoms than those in the countryside, even if they are exposed to the same types of pollen.

Coping with Pollen Allergies

Managing pollen allergy is all about reducing exposure and finding the right treatment. Here are some effective strategies:

• Check pollen forecasts regularly – Many European countries provide daily pollen updates. Plan outdoor activities for days when pollen counts are lower.
• Limit outdoor exposure in the mornings – Pollen levels are usually highest between 5:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., so save outdoor activities for later in the day or after rain, when pollen levels drop.
• Keep windows and doors closed – Use air conditioning with clean filters instead of natural ventilation to keep pollen out of your home and car.
• Use HEPA filters indoors – High-efficiency particulate air filters can significantly reduce pollen and dust inside the house.
• Shower and change clothes after being outdoors – Pollen sticks to skin, hair, and fabrics. A quick rinse can prevent pollen from spreading indoors.
• Wash bedding more often during pollen season – This reduces pollen that settles on sheets and pillows.
• Wear sunglasses and masks outdoors – Sunglasses protect eyes from irritation, while medical or FFP2 masks can help block inhalation of pollen.
• Avoid drying clothes outside – Pollen can stick to laundry left outdoors.
• Medication options:
  • Antihistamines to relieve sneezing and itching.
  • Nasal corticosteroid sprays to reduce congestion and inflammation.
  • Leukotriene inhibitors (for some patients, under medical advice).
  • Allergy shots (immunotherapy) for long-term relief, especially in severe cases.
• New innovations – Scientists are testing nasal filters that trap pollen before it enters the airways, offering a promising non-medication solution.