Temperature influence on differentiation and release of hazel pollen

The aim of the present work was to identify the classic phenological stages, and to understand its relation to catkin differentiation and growth, and its consequences for the start of pollination. Phenological observations and an aeropalynological survey on Corylus avellana, which is an example of an economically and allergologically interesting arboreal plant, were carried out during 1991-1992. The comparison between the different phenological phases and the aeropalynological data, showed that the pollen trap recorded hazel-pollen presence in the atmosphere immediately after the pollen release from the orchard. The start of catkin elongation in late winter, after the chilling requirement has been fulfilled, could be used to indicate the beginning of heat accumulation necessary for pollination.