How to Pollinate Alder buckthorn

(Frangula alnus)

Alder buckthorn, also known as Butcher's frick tree

Alder buckthorn relies heavily on buzzing bees for its pollination process, their buzzing vibrations effectively dispensing its pollen. As a strategy to attract these diligent pollinators, alder buckthorn blooms with small, star-shaped flowers, radiating with an enticing aroma. It typically unleashes its pollination campaign between May and June, setting the perfect stage for nature's remarkable synchronization of life.

Which Pollinators are Suitable for Alder Buckthorn?

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer

Primary pollinators

Bees

Potential pollinators

Butterflies, Beetles

How Does Pollination Occur in Alder Buckthorn?

Alder buckthorn's flowers are small, greenish-white in color arranged in clusters called cymes. They consist of five petals, five sepals and five stamens protruding from the center, crucial for the transportation of pollen.

Pollination in alder buckthorn mostly occurs via insects attracted to its scented flowers. Self-pollination rarely happens due to the flower's structure.

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How Can You Enhance the Pollination of Alder Buckthorn?

Plant Diversity

Plant various flowering plants in the garden or farm that can attract bees, butterflies, and beetles. Include a range of plants that flower at different times to ensure a steady food source for these pollinators.

Pesticide Management

Avoid using pesticides, especially during flowering, as they can harm these pollinators. If unavoidable, opt for organic or less harmful pesticides and apply them during times when pollinators are least active.

Water Sources

Provide shallow water sources in your garden or farm. Bees, butterflies, and beetles need water for survival. A pond, a bird bath, or a shallow dish filled with rocks and water can serve this purpose.

Habitat Creation

Create and preserve habitats suitable for these pollinators. Leave some areas of your garden or farm undisturbed and pile up dead wood to provide nesting and overwintering sites for bees and beetles.

How Can You Determine if Alder Buckthorn has Been Pollinated?

Flower Bloom

When alder buckthorn blooms, it indicates that pollination is likely to occur. The bloom is usually a sign that the plant is ready to receive pollen.

Pollinators Presence

The presence of bees and other pollinators is a key sign of potential pollination. Alder buckthorn is particularly attractive to insects, a good indicator of pollination.

Flower Withering

Post pollination, the flowers of alder buckthorn will start to wither, indicating successful transfer of pollen.

Seed Formation

Alder buckthorn will start to develop small, hard seeds post-pollination. A clear signal of successful pollination.

Understanding Hand-Pollination in Alder Buckthorn

Difficulty

Normal

Duration

40 mins

What Tools are Necessary for Hand-Pollinating Alder Buckthorn?

Small Soft Paintbrush

A small, soft paintbrush is necessary to transfer pollen from the male to the female flowers.

Gloves

Given the plant's laxative properties if ingested, it's safer to ensure you are wearing gloves during the process.

Misting Spray Bottle

To mimic natural dew conditions which can assist in the pollination process.

What is the Optimal Time for Hand-Pollinating Alder Buckthorn?

The best time for hand-pollination of alder buckthorn is early morning when the flowers are fresh and newly opened. As for the growth cycle timing, pollination should ideally occur when the plant is in full bloom, which is generally during mid to late spring.

Steps to Hand-Pollinate Alder Buckthorn

Step1: Preparation

Wear gloves to protect your skin. To get started, identify male and female flowers on separate plants, they are dioecious in nature. Ensure you target mature, newly opened flowers.

Step2: PollenCollection

Using the small, soft paintbrush, gently collect pollen from the male flowers. The pollen will attach itself to the bristles of the brush.

Step3: PollenTransfer

Carefully dust the pollen from the brush onto the stigma of the female flower. Repeat this process with several flowers to maximize the chances of successful pollination.

Step4: Misting

Spray a fine mist of water onto the pollinated flowers. This mimics the natural dew conditions and can help encourage the pollen to stick to the female flower and aid in successful pollination.

Step5: Repetition

Repeat the pollination method daily throughout the blooming period to increase chances of successful pollination.

Why Aren't There Fruits on Alder Buckthorn Despite the Presence of Flowers?

Low Pollinator Activity

If there is inadequate pollinator activity around alder buckthorn, consider introducing pollinator-attracting plants or bee houses in your garden.

Poor Flower Bloom

If alder buckthorn has poor blooming, it may need more sunlight or fertile soil. Ensure the plant receives at least partial sunlight and the soil is well-drained.

No Seed Formation

If there's no seed formation after flowering, it could suggest unsuccessful pollination. Hand pollinating can be a backup option.

Climate Conditions

Adverse weather conditions like frost, heavy rain or drought can adversely affect pollination. Protect alder buckthorn from extreme weather and provide extra care.