How to Pollinate Sacred fig

(Ficus religiosa)

Sacred fig, also known as Bo tree, Peepal tree

The enchanting sacred fig boasts an intriguing pollination tale. Wasps, its primary pollinators, are irresistibly drawn to its unique floral scent. Entranced, they dive into sacred fig's tiny flowers, unwittingly transporting pollen between male and female plants. This remarkable process, timed impeccably with sacred fig's blooming cycle, contributes to the species' propagation, showcasing nature's ingenuity at its finest.

Which Pollinators are Suitable for Sacred Fig?

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer, Fall

Primary pollinators

Wasps

How Does Pollination Occur in Sacred Fig?

Sacred fig produces specialized structures called figs instead of regular flowers. These figs are inversely turned urn-like structures with tiny florets inside. These florets are only accessible through a small opening at the top, suitable for a specific type of pollinator.

In sacred fig, pollination occurs through a symbiotic association with specific fig wasps. These wasps enter the fig through the small opening, depositing pollen and laying their eggs in the process.

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How Can You Enhance the Pollination of Sacred Fig?

Plant Diversity

Plant a variety of colorful and fragrant flowering plants that can serve as additional food sources for wasps. Plants that bloom at different times of the year are preferred to ensure a continuous supply of food.

Pesticides

Minimize or avoid using chemical pesticides which can harm wasps and contribute to their decline. Instead, use organic or integrated pest management strategies that are beneficial to pollinators.

Water Source

Provide a small, shallow water source scattered throughout the garden or farm. This can help wasps, who need water for drinking and cooling. Remember to change the water regularly to avoid attracting mosquitoes.

Shelter

Wasps also need places to nest and breed. Providing areas of undisturbed land, using natural materials such as logs, hollow reeds or purposely built insect hotels can help provide wasps with somewhere to live and breed, thereby increasing their population.

How Can You Determine if Sacred Fig has Been Pollinated?

Wasps Activity

Sacred fig's pollination is wind or insect-mediated, primarily by fig wasps. A buzz or sight of these wasps around the plant suggests successful pollination.

Fig Fruits Maturation

Following successful pollination, sacred fig produces figlike fruits which mature and darken. Observation of fruit development and ripening is a key pollination indicator.

Leaf Changes

If pollination is successful, sacred fig leaves may exhibit more vibrant coloration. A shift in leaf color may be suggestive of pollination.

Understanding Hand-Pollination in Sacred Fig

Difficulty

Difficult

Duration

60 mins

What Tools are Necessary for Hand-Pollinating Sacred Fig?

Small Brush

A small, soft brush is needed to transfer pollen from the male to the female flowers.

Hand Lens

This is useful for distinguishing between fully developed and underdeveloped fig syconia to ensure only mature ones are pollinated.

Tweezers

Useful for removing the male flowers to expose the pollen.

What is the Optimal Time for Hand-Pollinating Sacred Fig?

The best time to hand-pollinate the sacred fig is early morning, when the male flowers are ready and releasing pollen. This usually falls within the fig syconia maturing phase which typically occurs during late spring to early summer.

Steps to Hand-Pollinate Sacred Fig

Step1: Gathering Pollen

The first step is to carefully gather pollen from the male flowers using the small brush or a similar tool. This should be done delicately to avoid damaging the male flowers.

Step2: Exposing the pollen

With the tweezers, carefully remove the male flowers from the interior of the fig syconia and expose the pollen. Use the hand lens to identify mature fig syconia.

Step3: Applying Pollen to Female Flowers

Gently brush the pollen onto the stigma of the female flowers. Ensure that the pollen comes into direct contact with the female flower’s stigma to increase chances of successful pollination.

Step4: Wait and Observe

After applying the pollen, wait and observe the development of the fig syconia. If successful, the fig syconia will start growing and maturing into full-sized figs. If not, the process may need to be repeated.

Why Aren't There Fruits on Sacred Fig Despite the Presence of Flowers?

Low Wasps Presence

Pollination issues in sacred fig may be due to an inadequate wasp population. Try introducing fig wasps or encourage their natural attraction by maintaining ecosystem diversity.

Infrequent Fruiting

If sacred fig is fruiting less often, it might suggest pollination issues. Ensure optimal growth conditions for the plant, especially adequate sunlight and nutrients.

Poor Fruit Development

If fruits are underdeveloped, this implies poor pollination. Consider pollen supplementation or enhancing plant health through improved care.