Alder (Alnus) is one of the first trees to start Poland’s pollen season. The commonest species, black alder (Alnus glutinosa), grows on wet riverbanks, beside ponds, and in damp woodland. Grey alder (Alnus incana) also occurs in the mountains and north. Both are wind-pollinated, so their pollen can travel beyond the tree itself.
Season and regions
Alder usually pollinates from February to April, but a mild winter can bring pollen as early as January. The season often starts earlier in western Poland and the lowlands, while colder regions and higher ground may lag behind. The exact timing depends on temperature, wind, and humidity.
Alder overlaps with hazel and is followed by birch. Alder, birch, and hazel are closely related, so some people react to several of these pollens in succession. Typical symptoms include sneezing, a watery runny nose, nasal blockage, and itchy, watery eyes. In people with asthma, pollen can coincide with poorer disease control.
Data on pelud.net
For Polish cities, the forecast uses the European CAMS model through Open-Meteo. Displayed values are modeled, not measured at a local station, so they are orientative and may differ between districts. See how risk is calculated.
What may help
During the season, watch your symptoms and the forecast, limit long visits near damp woodland on windy days, and wash your face and hair after coming home. Use medication only as advised by a clinician or pharmacist. Severe breathlessness, wheezing, or throat swelling needs urgent medical attention.
Sources
Pollen bands can be compared with the DWD pollen index. This article is informational and is not a diagnosis.