Grass Pollen Allergy

Grass pollen consists of tiny wind-carried grains released by grasses to reproduce. It is one of the most common causes of seasonal allergies worldwide. Bermuda grass, Timothy grass, and Kentucky bluegrass are among the most allergenic species.

Many types of grasses produce pollen. Grass pollen allergies can cause symptoms similar to birch pollen and ragweed pollen.

Symptoms of a Grass Pollen Allergy

If you have a grass pollen allergy, you might experience:

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Itchy throat or ears
• Coughing

These symptoms usually appear during the grass pollen season, which is late spring and summer. They can be very uncomfortable and may interfere with daily activities.

Where is Grass Pollen Found?

Grass pollen is found in areas with lots of grasses. You can find grasses in many parts of the world, including fields, lawns, and parks. They are especially common in temperate regions.

Grass pollen can be particularly high in cities with large green spaces. In Europe, our forecasts regularly show high grass pollen levels in cities like London, Paris, Munich, and Rome during the peak season.

When Is Grass Pollen Season?

Grass pollen season varies depending on the type of grass and the location. In most of Europe, it starts in late spring (May) and can continue through July and even into early August. The peak is usually in June.

According to MedUni Vienna's Pollen Service, the grass pollen season can vary significantly from year to year. Due to the diversity of grass species, the grass pollen season lasts longer than other pollen seasons.

Grass pollen counts are usually higher on dry, windy days and lower after rain. Checking local pollen forecasts can help you plan your activities and reduce exposure.

Treating a Grass Pollen Allergy

There are several effective ways to manage a grass pollen allergy:

• Avoiding Pollen: Stay indoors on high pollen days, especially in the early morning when pollen release is highest. Keep windows closed and use air conditioning if possible.
• Medication: Over-the-counter antihistamines and corticosteroid nasal sprays can relieve symptoms. Eye drops can also help with itchy, watery eyes.
• Nasal Rinses: Rinsing your nose with saline solution can wash out pollen and soothe irritation.
• Allergy Immunotherapy: If symptoms are severe, a doctor may recommend specific immunotherapy. This can be given as allergy shots or as a daily tablet that dissolves under the tongue. EAACI patient resources describe how this treatment can reduce your sensitivity over time. Ask your doctor whether it suits your case.

Understanding grass pollen and how it affects you can make dealing with allergies easier. Keeping track of pollen counts and using the right treatments can help you feel better during allergy season.

Cross-Reactivity and Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS)

Some people with grass pollen allergy may also experience mild itching or swelling in the mouth, lips, or throat after eating certain fresh fruits and vegetables. This is known as Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS).

Common trigger foods for grass pollen allergy include:

• Melons (cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon)
• Orange
• Tomato
• Kiwi
• Potato
• Swiss chard

In some cases, hands may itch and become red when peeling or handling raw white potatoes. Cooking these foods usually destroys the proteins that cause the reaction, so they are safe to eat when cooked. If you notice any symptoms, talk to your doctor for advice.

Grass Pollen FAQ

What are grass pollen allergy symptoms?

Typical symptoms are sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, an itchy throat or ears, and coughing. They appear in late spring and summer and can disrupt daily activities during peak weeks.

When is grass pollen season?

In most of Europe the season runs from May through July and into early August, with the peak usually in June. Because many grass species pollinate in turn, the season lasts longer than most other pollen seasons and varies from year to year.

When does grass pollen season end?

Grass pollen usually fades during July, sometimes extending into early August depending on species and weather. Counts drop after rain and rise on dry, windy days, so daily forecasts help you plan the end of the season.

How can I reduce grass pollen symptoms?

Stay indoors on high pollen days, especially in the early morning, and keep windows closed. Air conditioning, saline nose rinses, and showering after outdoor time all help. Ask your doctor about medication or immunotherapy if symptoms are severe.

Last reviewed: October 2026.

Check Pollen Levels for Grass Pollen

See the current grass pollen levels across Europe on our Pollen Map (select "grass" on the map options).

You can also sign up for pollen alerts to be notified of high grass pollen days in your city.

Track grass on iPhone with our free pollen count app.

Pollen guides are for education and planning only. This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider about symptoms or treatment.