Pollen Count & Forecast for New York

New York’s spring allergy season (March-May) is dominated by Oak and Birch pollen; Oak (Quercus) prolific in Central Park and Prospect Park; Birch (Betula) and Maple (Acer) widespread across borough streets. London Plane (Platanus x acerifolia) contributes significantly along Manhattan avenues. Summer (May-July) sees high Grass (Poaceae) pollen levels, originating from Pelham Bay Park and Hudson River banks. Late summer has Ragweed (Ambrosia) from Van Cortlandt Park.

Tall skyscrapers and narrow street grids can trap pollen, leading to high concentrations in urban street canyons. Autumn and winter see elevated Mould (Alternaria, Cladosporium) spore counts, from decomposing leaf litter in wooded parks and damp subway environments.