Tree Pollen

Tree Pollen and Hay Fever

Most hay fever sufferers in the UK react mainly to grass pollen, which peaks during summer. But if your symptoms tend to start earlier in the year, tree pollen may be the cause.

Around a quarter of people with hay fever are sensitive to pollen from trees. This typically means symptoms appear in spring rather than summer, catching some people off guard before they expect the hay fever season to begin.

Which Trees Cause Problems in the UK

Several common British trees release pollen that can trigger hay fever symptoms. The main sources include:

  • Birch
  • Alder
  • Hazel
  • Horse chestnut
  • Oak

Each tree species has its own pollination window. Hazel and alder tend to release pollen earliest, sometimes as early as February. Birch follows in spring, with oak pollen appearing later.

If tree pollen affects you, expect your worst symptoms between March and May. The exact timing varies each year depending on weather conditions and where you live in the country.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

Birch Pollen: The Most Common Tree Allergen

Birch trees cause more tree pollen allergies than any other species in the UK, accounting for the majority of spring hay fever cases. They typically release pollen from March through to May, with April usually being the peak month for symptoms.

Pollen counts from birch trees rise highest on warm, dry days with a light breeze. If you live near woodland areas with birch trees, or spend time in such places, you may notice your symptoms worsening on these days.

Birch pollen allergy can also cause reactions to certain foods. Some people who are allergic to birch pollen experience mild symptoms when eating raw apples, pears, carrots, celery or tomatoes. This is known as oral allergy syndrome, and it happens because proteins in these foods resemble those found in birch pollen. Cooking the foods usually prevents this reaction.

Oak trees begin releasing their pollen as early as April in some regions, often overlapping with birch pollen season. In other areas, the handover occurs later in April and continues into early May. For people sensitive to both types, this can mean a prolonged period of symptoms.

Managing Tree Pollen Symptoms

Tracking pollen forecasts can help you prepare for high count days. The Met Office provides daily pollen forecasts across UK regions, and the NHS offers additional guidance on managing pollen allergies throughout the season.

Standard hay fever treatments work for tree pollen allergies just as they do for grass pollen. Antihistamines, nasal sprays and eye drops are all options. Your pharmacist can advise on what might suit your symptoms best.

Starting treatment before your symptoms typically begin may help keep them under better control. If you know birch pollen affects you in April, beginning antihistamines in late March could make a difference.

On high pollen days, simple measures can reduce your exposure. Keeping windows closed during peak pollen hours, showering after spending time outdoors, and drying clothes inside rather than on a washing line may all help.

If over the counter remedies do not control your symptoms adequately, speak to your GP. They can discuss prescription options such as corticosteroid nasal sprays or stronger antihistamines. If the exact cause of your symptoms remains unclear, your GP may refer you for allergy testing, which often involves skin prick tests to identify specific triggers.