Pollen
Many people suffer from pollen allergies. Symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing,
coughing, and itchy or watery eyes. Trees, grasses and weeds produce pollen as part
of the natural process that leads to new seed production. Plants that disperse their
pollen by wind typically have small, inconspicuous flowers, shaped to maximize the
release of pollen into the air. It is this airborne pollen that causes allergy sufferers
discomfort as it comes in contact with noses, throats, and eyes.
Every weekday during our local pollen season, the Forsyth County Environmental Affairs
Department measures the concentration of pollen grains in the air, at our downtown
Winston-Salem office. We then issue a daily pollen report and forecast to help allergy
sufferers better plan their daily activities. You can sign
up to receive our pollen reports and forecasts by email.
In Forsyth County, tree pollen is most significant during late winter and spring.
Grass pollen is most prevalent in early summer, and to a lesser extent in early
fall. Weed pollen tends to dominate in late summer and early fall. Ragweed is common
in our area and is a significant cause of allergy discomfort for many people.
The pollen from colorful showy flowers like tulips and roses is typically too heavy
and sticky to be carried well by the wind. Much of this pollen is spread from flower
to flower by bees and other insects. Pollen from these types of flowers do not cause
most pollen-related suffering.
For additional information about our pollen monitoring program, please read our
Pollen Brochure.
Pollen History