In Vienna and in eastern Austria, allergy sufferers should prepare for the onset of hazel pollen. In sunny locations the first plants are already ready to bloom.
The good news: Below-average flowering is expected in Vienna overall. However, those affected must still take precautions and regularly inform themselves about the situation.
Purple alder pollen count completed
As usual, the purple alder started blooming at the end of December and has already finished blooming in Vienna. This urban tree produces barely measurable pollen counts, but can cause local complaints, reports the Vienna Pollen Service of MedUni Vienna.
Strictly speaking, this year’s pollen season started in the last days of December with the flowering of the purple alder. This tree species is a hybrid and can withstand the city climate well. Unfortunately, the early flowering period extends the alder pollen season.
The catkins of the gray alder (Alnus incana) and the black alder (Alnus gutinosa) are still well closed. In Vienna, the gray alder begins to bloom earlier than the black alder and at the latest in late January, depending on weather conditions.
The hazel blossoms should start soon
Hazel pollen is not yet widespread. However, the first plants have already reached the flowering phase in sunny locations. There are also reports from our neighboring country Germany about the beginning of hazel blossom. With sunshine and temperatures from five degrees Celsius, the first pollen counts can already be expected in Vienna.
Even keeping your eyes open is extremely helpful, as Maximilian Bastl from MedUni Vienna’s Pollen Service Vienna recommends: “Identifying flowering plants and avoiding proximity is a great advantage. In the immediate vicinity of the source, the pollen concentrations are many times higher.”
But there are also positive things to note: after a below-average season in 2024, hazel flowering in 2025 will also be below average. The number of catkins producing pollen is low for the second year in a row. The hazel in particular hardly shows any population.
This guarantees the desired high quality of the pollen forecasts. Observing nature and in particular the development of the flower heads of allergenic plants in different locations is an important part of the work.
365 days a year Pollen Service Vienna
Pollen concentrations are measured and collected 365 days a year by the Vienna Pollen Service. The pollen forecasts and information on the website are also updated at least weekly throughout the year.
Climate change is already causing significant changes in the pollen season. For the first time, a study has shown a significant change in the mugwort pollen season in Austria.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
