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How to Pollinate Common chicory
(Cichorium intybus)
Common chicory, also known as Wild succory, Blue dandelion
Common chicory blooms early in the morning to invite its primary pollinators - bees, with a subtle blue flower serving as an irresistible visual. Using both cross and self-pollination methods, it ensures propagative success. Its distinct, protruding stamen releases pollen that attaches to bees, ensuring pollination as they flit between flowers, a process perfectly timed with the bees' most active hours.
pollination

Which Pollinators are Suitable for Common Chicory?

Bloom Time
Mid summer, Late summer, Fall
Primary pollinators
Bees
Potential pollinators
Butterflies, Beetles

How Does Pollination Occur in Common Chicory?

Common chicory produces periwinkle-blue flowers that are solitary and terminal, each having a hollow stem and ray florets. The flower type is radially symmetric which helps in effective pollination.

In common chicory, pollination primarily occurs through insects. The plant cannot self-pollinate as it's a dioecious species.
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How Can You Enhance the Pollination of Common Chicory?

Plant Diversity
Plant a range of plants that flower all year round to provide food sources for pollinators like bees and butterflies. Plants with bright colors and strong scents, such as phlox and bee balm, can attract these insects.
Avoid Pesticides
Pesticides can harm bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. If pest control is necessary, opt for organic solutions or integrated pest management practices.
Provide Water
A shallow water feature or bird bath can serve as a water source for bees and butterflies. Adding stones to the water can provide a landing spot. Be sure to replenish the water regularly.
Install Bee Boxes
Install bee boxes or insect hotels in the garden or farm. These structures can provide nesting and egg-laying sites specifically for solitary bees, which are excellent pollinators.

How Can You Determine if Common Chicory has Been Pollinated?

Flower Transformation
After pollination, the vibrant blue flowers of common chicory start to wilt and form tiny seeds. The plant has been successfully pollinated when there's noticeable seed formation.
Increase in Pollinators
Increased presence of bees and butterflies is a good sign as common chicory being pollinated, as these insects play a critical role in transferring pollen.

Understanding Hand-Pollination in Common Chicory

Difficulty
Normal
Duration
30 - 60 mins

What Tools are Necessary for Hand-Pollinating Common Chicory?

Small Brush
A small, soft brush is used to collect pollen from the male part of the flower and gently deposit it onto the female part.
Tweezers
Used for carefully exposing the female part of the common chicory plant for effective pollination.
Magnifying Glass
To observe the intricate parts of the flower for proper hand-pollination.

What is the Optimal Time for Hand-Pollinating Common Chicory?

The best time to hand-pollinate common chicory is during the morning hours, especially during its flowering period which is commonly from July to October. This is when the plant is most receptive.

Steps to Hand-Pollinate Common Chicory

Step1: Understanding The Flower Structure
Common chicory has a cluster of blue, lavender, or occasionally white flowers. Understand the parts of the flower: The male part (the stamen) which is the pollen-producing part, and the female part (the pistil) that is the seed-producing part.
Step2: Gathering Pollen
Using a small brush, gently collect the pollen from the stamen.
Step3: Pollinating
Cautiously use the tweezers to reveal the pistil and lightly brush the pollen onto it causing pollination.
Step4: Monitoring
Monitor the flower after the application of the pollen to ensure successful pollination has been achieved. The flower should eventually begin to develop a fruit indicating successful pollination.

Why Aren't There Fruits on Common Chicory Despite the Presence of Flowers?

Insufficient Pollinators
If pollinators are scarce, consider inviting pollinators by planting native flowers around common chicory or providing a water source. Also, minimizing the use of pesticides can help attract bees.
Incompatible Weather Conditions
Excessive heat or cold can hamper pollination. In such cases, consider growing common chicory in a controlled environment or choose the right planting time based on local climate patterns.
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