Why do wind-pollinated plants (like grasses) release so much pollen, and why does it trigger allergies?
Wind is a random, wasteful carrier — most pollen never lands on the right stigma — so these plants compensate by producing enormous quantities of very light, dry pollen that drifts far on the breeze.
Wind is a random, wasteful carrier — most pollen never lands on the right stigma — so these plants compensate by producing enormous quantities of very light, dry pollen that drifts far on the breeze. That same fine, airborne pollen is easily inhaled by people, where it can trigger allergic reactions like hay fever. The plant's 'shotgun' strategy for pollination is exactly what fills the spring air with allergens.
Key point
Wind pollination is inefficient, so plants make huge amounts of light pollen — which we then inhale.
Common mistake
thinking allergy pollen comes mainly from showy, scented flowers.
Memory tip
dull wind-pollinated flowers (grasses) make the clouds of allergy pollen.
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