Texas – Cedar fever season is underway across Texas as pollen from mountain cedar trees fills the air. Residents in the Hill Country are especially affected, as Ashe juniper trees dominate the landscape. However, Texans in the Crossroads region may also feel the effects, as strong north winds spread the pollen.
The reach of cedar fever extends beyond areas with high concentrations of juniper trees. In eastern Texas, eastern redcedars release pollen around the same time, contributing to similar allergic responses.
Although Ashe juniper pollen is not inherently harmful, its high concentration can trigger allergic reactions. The body perceives the pollen as a threat, leading to symptoms such as a sore throat, runny nose, fatigue, and partial loss of smell. In some cases, mild fever may occur, though a fever higher than 101.5 degrees is unlikely to be caused by pollen.
To manage cedar fever, health experts recommend taking allergy medications such as antihistamines but advise consulting a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Checking local pollen counts and forecasts can help individuals anticipate high-pollen days. On those days, it’s best to stay indoors, keep windows and doors closed, and limit outdoor exposure. High-efficiency MERV-rated air filters for home and car HVAC systems and air purifiers can also reduce pollen exposure
One of the main challenges of cedar fever is its timing. Most trees pollinate in spring, but junipers release their pollen in winter, when few other plants are active. Pollen production typically begins in mid-December, triggered by colder weather or cold fronts. It peaks in mid-January and gradually tapers off by early March.
“Cedar fever is irritating to many due to the quantity and density of Ashe junipers in Central Texas that all produce pollen at the same time, which leads to a high concentration of pollen in the air,” said Robert Edmonson, a biologist with the Texas A&M Forest Service and an ISA-certified arborist. “Cold fronts are marked by very dry and windy conditions with rapid pressure changes, which trigger pollen cones to open and release pollen grains. In certain conditions, you can even see the pollen blowing off trees.”
For more information on identifying Ashe junipers and eastern redcedars or to track the distribution of these trees, visit the Texas A&M Forest Service’s Texas Tree ID webpage or use the My Tree ID mobile app.
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