Yes, most of the trees are in bloom now, even if you don't notice the little green flowers. We have a sycamore immediately outside the house, and that always causes Manitas problems.

The "drought" and warm weather in March would have made the trees think it was later in the year than it really is - I saw blackthorn in bloom in January, cherries and other fruit had all blossomed and blown before Easter.

I've never suffered from hay fever, although there was a summer where I discovered a reaction to one particular tree - so I can only sympathise from afar.

Giving up smoking will make you more sensitive, because the smoke particles would normally block your sinus'. Now these particles have gone, the pollen and other dust can get in and cause allergic reactions and irritation. It may be that you will have to live with it, but it may also be that you will become less sensitive as time goes on, it's because you've given up smoking now that they are particularly bad.

LTS