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Pollenservice Wien

Video Highlight: How to properly remove Ragweed

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To prevent the reoccurrence of ragweed, the neophyte should be removed before flowering and seed ripening. Pulling it out is the most effective method (Video from 13th of August 2024; location: 1230 Vienna; ©Katharina Bastl (MedUni Vienna/Pollenservice Vienna)).

Ragweed tends to grow in fallow land, along fields, as well as on construction sites and in bird feeding areas. When removing ragweed it is important for pollen allergy sufferers to take protective measures. Wearing a mask and sunglasses when the flowers are open minimizes contact with pollen. Wearing gloves helps to prevent potential skin reactions. Pulled plants should neither be thrown in the organic waste nor be composted to avoid further seed dispersal. It is best to dispose of the plants in a plastic bag in the residual waste. A big thank you to everyone who removes ragweed!

Current pollination

THURSDAY, 10. OCTOBER
Pollen types:Fungal spores

LEGEND

Hardly/no pollination
Pollination
high pollination

Photo: Alternaria spore in an air sample from Vienna

Mid- and long-term forecast for Vienna
This forecast gives you an overview for a longer time period so that you can improve your planning.

Fungal spores will remain at moderate levels!

In the beginning of the week the fungal spores reached high levels one more time. However, the lower temperatures and the unsettled weather for the rest of the week will bring the concentrations back to moderate levels. The concentrations may still attain high levels, especially during sunny periods with temperatures about 20°C and following rainfall. Currently, spores of the genera Alternaria and Epicoccum are mainly found in the Vienna pollen trap. Spores of the genus Cladosporium have decreased in the recent days and are currently present only in small quantities.

Pollination profile

Fungal spores:

  • state of the season: end of the season/moderate concentrations
  • trend: constant
  • time of the start of the season: earlier than average

The usual times of pollination can be found in our pollen calendars.

Tip of the season:
In October once again clearly visible yellow precipitation on outdoor surfaces can be observed. The reason for this renewed „sulfur rain“ is the flowering of the native cedar, which usually starts in September/October. Similar to spruce and pine, the allergic potential of the native cedar is very low, hence the dust should not worry pollen allergy sufferers.

Pollen spectrum:
Pollen of ivy, cedar and mercury occur as well

Current main allergen: Fungal spores

Exposure time in Vienna: May to October

Occurrence in Vienna: The molds in focus here thrive on vegetation. This ranges from potting soil to grain fields. Note: The concentration of fungal spores outdoor has nothing to do with the occurrence of molds indoors.

Who are “the fungal spores“?
The spores of the molds Alternaria and Cladosporium are of allergological importance, especially the former. The here discussed fungal spores are the most important ones for ambient air. There is a high diversity of molds, that are present indoors and can spread on food. Molds may cause allergies, but also toxic reactions escalating to mycosis (invasion of the inner organs).
Alternaria belongs to the blackness-fungi. It grows primarily on vegetation and causes plant diseases that can result in crop failures (fruit, cereals). Persons concerned should not mow the lawn, since it is often located on dry plants. However, Alternaria is also found in the living area.
Cladosporium belongs as well to the blackness-fungi. It prefers forests, gardens, and swamps. It is the most common fungal spore in ambient air.

Cross-reactivity: In general, there is cross-reactivity to spores of other molds (e.g. Aspergillus, Epicoccum).

The GeoSphere Austria is our partner for weather forecasts and weather data. We are grateful for the professional interchange and the cooperation.