What Falls off Oak Trees in Spring

A • The “tassels” that drop from oak trees are called catkins, and they are the spent male flowers whose purpose is to shed pollen that is carried by the wind to female flowers. If pollination occurs, then the female flowers will develop into the acorns that are the seeds of the oak tree.

What are the things that fall out of oak trees in the spring?

These stringy brown tassels are called catkins or tassels. They are the male pollen structures produced by oak trees (Quercus spp.). They hang in the trees like tassels on the end of bike handlebars, releasing their pollen into the wind to fertilize the female flowers.

How long do oak trees drop catkins?

Oak Tree Pollen Facts The oak tree pollen drop lasts about four days. It is this yellowish dust that is seen on car hoods and deck floors, and causes problems for people with seasonal allergies. Heavy rains and humid conditions may delay the release of pollen and affect the number of acorns produced on a single tree.

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.

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