Record Pollen Is Here!

With an early blooming season, spring pollen is here. Actually, it's everywhere! Record amounts of pollen has arrived in March and many states are getting something along with their nice sunshine.

This month, Atlanta experienced the highest pollen count the city has had in over 13 years reported CNN. The Atlanta Allergy and Asthma Clinic measured 8,164 particles of pollen per cubic meter of air. This was a record breaking particle count for the big city. Not only is there high pollen in Atlanta, but high counts of pollen have showed up in the southeast and southwest regions of the country. Knoxville, Tennessee was rated the #1 worst city for allergies in 2011, and with the early pollen releasing, the city has a high pollen rate this year as well.

Since winter was not that cold, plants and trees are releasing pollen much earlier. This has meant hay fever and varioius allergy symptoms for millions of people to contend with. "We’re seeing it in the patients who are having much more trouble this year than they’ve had in the past, because of the very high [pollen] counts and the prolonged season," said Dr Stanley Fineman at the AAAC and president of the American College of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology.

Many have the big question should I have any concerns about cut flowers causing allergies? All flowers have pollen. Most of the types of flowers within arrangements do not carry the type of pollen that causes allergies. Calla Lilies do have high pollen on their stamen, however, florists remove them because they can discolor the flower and probably due to its' pollen. If allergies are a very sensitive issue for the recipient, Orchids are the safest choice and stay away from Blossoms, Daisies, Sunflowers and Chrysanthemums. Also, stay away flowers with visible pollen and scented flowers. The less scent a flower has, the less pollen it will have.

Inspite of the pollen in Atlanta and nationwide, you can feel at peace with purchasing floral arrangements for that special someone. Atlanta florists like Peachtree Petals can provide you with a great floral arrangement and meet all of your floral needs, even weddings . The new florist creates stunning bouquets and is known for their free delivery services in the metro Atlanta area. Experts are available to answer any questions about certain flowers you may have. Even with all the pollen we are experiencing, you can still enjoy the beauty of flowers today!

References: 3.19.12, CNN, Elizabeth Landau, Attention, Allergies Sufferers: Pollen Has Arrived; 3.2.12, www.informationgateway.org , Health & Beauty, How to Buy Flowers for Allergy Sufferers