How to Pollinate Pomegranate

(Punica granatum)

Pomegranate, also known as Pomegranate

Bees and birds flock to the mesmerizing allure of pomegranate plants, driven by their vibrant flowers and delectable nectar. Their diligent work heralds the ushering in of the pollination season. The synchronized dance between these creatures and the plant's complex pollination mechanism ensures each bloom is perfectly visited, resulting in a successful pollination process for another season of fruitful growth.

Which Pollinators are Suitable for Pomegranate?

Bloom Time

Summer

Primary pollinators

Bees, Birds

Potential pollinators

Wind

How Does Pollination Occur in Pomegranate?

Pomegranate's flowers are single-to-double shaped, showy, and brightly colored, often ranging in hues from red to white. These flowers have multiple stamens, a significant feature that aids in their pollination.

For pomegranate, pollination is typically facilitated by insects, such as bees, who transfer pollen from the stamens to the pistil of another flower.

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How Can You Enhance the Pollination of Pomegranate?

Plant Diversity

Planting a variety of native plants may be beneficial as it could attract a broader spectrum of pollinators. Flowers with different shapes and colors can invite different types of bees and birds to the garden or farm.

Water Sources

Having fresh water available in the garden or farm could help attract bees and birds. This could be in the form of a birdbath, a pond, or even a simple dish of water.

No Pesticides

It would be beneficial to avoid using pesticides, especially during the flowering season, as these can harm or repel pollinators like bees and birds. If possible, using organic or integrated pest management strategies would be more optimal.

Providing Shelter

Providing areas for bees to nest or birds to perch would also be advantageous in attracting these pollinators. This could be achieved by leaving dead trees or woody debris, adding bee boxes, or birdhouses.

How Can You Determine if Pomegranate has Been Pollinated?

Flower transformation

Pomegranate's flowers transform into mini fruits after successful pollination, signifying fertilization has occurred.

Pollen dispersal

If bees and other insects are seen actively moving around pomegranate's flowers, this indicates pollen is being transported between flowers.

Petal drop

After successful pollination, the pomegranate's flower petals drop while leaving the ovary to develop into a fruit.

Understanding Hand-Pollination in Pomegranate

Difficulty

Normal

Duration

30 - 60 mins

What Tools are Necessary for Hand-Pollinating Pomegranate?

Small Paintbrush

Used to collect and transfer pollen between flowers.

Gloves

To protect your hands and avoid damaging the delicate flowers.

What is the Optimal Time for Hand-Pollinating Pomegranate?

The best time for hand-pollination for pomegranate is in the morning when the flowers have just opened. This is also when the plant’s natural pollinators are most active. Hand-pollination should be done when the plant begins to bloom, typically in the late spring or early summer.

Steps to Hand-Pollinate Pomegranate

Step1: Prepare the Paintbrush

Put on your gloves and get your small paintbrush ready. Ensure the bristles are clean and free of any substances that could harm the flower or impede pollination.

Step2: Collect Pollen

Gently brush the stamens of the pomegranate flower to collect the pollen. The pollen should stick to the bristles of the brush.

Step3: Transfer Pollen

Brush the pollen onto the stigma of a different pomegranate flower. The stigma is often sticky and will hold onto the pollen.

Step4: Repeat

Repeat this process for all of the open flowers on the pomegranate plant. Multiple applications may increase pollination rates.

Step5: Care After Pollination

Once hand-pollination is complete, regular care for the pomegranate plant should continue, including plenty of sunlight, regular watering and proper fertilization.

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

Inadequate pollination

If pomegranate shows poor fruit development or no fruit at all, chances are they aren't getting pollinated. Handle this by attracting more pollinators like bees via companion planting.

Seasonal conditions

Pomegranate needs hot and dry climates for effective pollination. If weather is unfavourable, consider transferring plants indoors or use a greenhouse.

Poor pollinator presence

If there are few pollinators attracted to pomegranate, consider hand pollination with a small paintbrush or cotton swab.