How to Pollinate Pigeonberry

(Rivina humilis)

Pigeonberry, also known as Rougeplant, Coralito, Dog blood, Small pokeweed, Bloodberry rougeplant

The charming pigeonberry entices diligent bees with its magnetic allure, exploiting their role as primary pollinators. Via a captivating interaction of color and scent, pigeonberry orchestrates an effective pollination system. This ingenious mechanism thrives in the daytime, perfectly synchronizing with the bees' activity period, ensuring effective transfer of pollen and glorifying the miracle of nature each time.

Which Pollinators are Suitable for Pigeonberry?

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer, Fall

Primary pollinators

Bees

Potential pollinators

Butterflies

How Does Pollination Occur in Pigeonberry?

Pigeonberry has small, clustered, and inconspicuous flowers with radial symmetry. It comprises of four white or green-yellow petals that contain hermaphroditic structures; both male and female organs.

The plant has hermaphroditic flowers that allow self-pollination, but it also facilitates cross-pollination via insects due to its nectary attraction.

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How Can You Enhance the Pollination of Pigeonberry?

Plant Diversity

Incorporate a variety of flowering plants in the garden or farm setting that are known to attract bees and butterflies. These pollinators prefer brightly colored, fragrant flowers. Planting in clusters may also make these plants more attractive to these pollinators.

Water Source

Providing a shallow water source can attract these pollinators as they also require water for survival. A birdbath or a shallow dish filled with stones and water will work, ensuring there are stones or pebbles protruding from the water for them to land on.

Pesticides

Avoid using harsh chemical pesticides that can harm bees and butterflies. Instead, opt for organic or natural pesticide options. Integrated pest management strategies can also be a good alternative to balance pest control with creating a safe environment for pollinators.

Habitat

Create a suitable habitat for bees and butterflies. For bees, consider installing bee hotels, and for butterflies, incorporate caterpillar food plants in your garden or farm. Providing nesting and egg-laying sites can not only help in attracting these pollinators but also encourages their populations to grow.

How Can You Determine if Pigeonberry has Been Pollinated?

Flower's Transformation

In the pollinated pigeonberry plants, the flowers will undergo a transformation, typically wilting after successful pollination as energy is diverted to fruit or seed production.

Presence of Berries

Successful pollination in pigeonberry can also be confirmed by the presence of berries. After pollination, the plant produces small, bright-red berries.

Understanding Hand-Pollination in Pigeonberry

Difficulty

Normal

Duration

60 mins

What Tools are Necessary for Hand-Pollinating Pigeonberry?

Small Brush

A small, soft brush is used to collect and transfer the pollen from the stamen (male part) to pistil (female part).

Magnifying Glass

It might be necessary to use a magnifying glass to clearly see the small reproductive parts of pigeonberry.

Gloves

Wearing gloves can prevent any potential allergenic reactions to the plant.

What is the Optimal Time for Hand-Pollinating Pigeonberry?

The best time to perform hand pollination of pigeonberry is during late spring or early summer, in the morning hours when the flowers are newly opened. This is the time when the plant is most receptive to pollination.

Steps to Hand-Pollinate Pigeonberry

Step1: Preparation

Preparation means understanding your plant's structure and cycle. For the pigeonberry, recognize when the plant is in its flowering stage. Put on your gloves and prepare your tools.

Step2: Collecting Pollen

Using your small brush, gently brush over the stamen of the pigeonberry flower to collect the pollen. Be careful not to damage the plant.

Step3: Transferring Pollen

Once you have the pollen on your brush, carefully dust it over the pistil of the same or another pigeonberry flower. This is best done under a magnifying glass to ensure accuracy.

Step4: Repetition

Repeat the above process for all flowers. Remember, pigeonberry may not successfully pollinate every time, so pollinate as many flowers as possible to increase chances of success.

Step5: Post-Pollination Care

After pollination, the plant should continue to be cared for with proper watering and sunlight. This will help increase the chances of successful pollination.

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

Lack of Pollinators

If there are no berries, lack of pollinators could be an issue. Increasing the diversity of plants in your garden can attract more pollinators.

Unfavorable Weather

Unfavorable weather conditions like high winds or heavy rains can disrupt pollination. Providing some protection to your pigeonberry during extreme weather conditions can improve pollination rates.