Updated: June 21, 2022

Coleus plants are a beautiful addition to any garden. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, and they’re easy to care for. However, if you want to increase your yield, you need to know how to pollinate your coleus plants. In this article, we’ll discuss how to pollinate coleus plants and increase your yield.

What is Pollination?

Pollination is the process by which pollen is transferred from the male part of a plant (the stamen) to the female part of a plant (the pistil). This process is essential for reproduction in plants. Without pollination, plants wouldn’t be able to produce seeds and reproduce.

Why is Pollination Important?

Pollination is crucial for the production of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. When a plant is properly pollinated, it produces more fruit or flowers, which means a higher yield. Additionally, cross-pollination can lead to stronger and more resilient plants.

How to Pollinate Coleus Plants

Coleus plants are self-fertile, which means that they don’t require another plant for pollination. However, you can still increase your yield by manually pollinating your coleus plants.

Step 1: Identify the Male and Female Parts of the Plant

The male part of the plant is the stamen. It’s usually located in the center of the flower and has a long stem with a small knob at the end. The female part of the plant is the pistil. It’s located in the center of the flower and has a long stem with a small bulb at the end.

Step 2: Collect Pollen

To collect pollen, gently tap the stamen with your finger or a small brush. The pollen will fall onto your finger or brush.

Step 3: Transfer Pollen

Transfer the pollen to the pistil by gently rubbing it onto the small bulb at the end of the pistil. Be careful not to damage the plant or its flowers.

Step 4: Repeat the Process

Repeat the process for each flower on your coleus plant. You may need to pollinate each flower multiple times to ensure that it’s properly pollinated.

FAQ

When is the best time to pollinate coleus plants?

The best time to pollinate coleus plants is in the morning when the flowers are fully open.

How often should I pollinate my coleus plants?

You should pollinate your coleus plants once a week during their growing season.

Can I use a cotton swab to collect pollen?

Yes, you can use a cotton swab to collect pollen. Be sure to use a new swab for each flower to avoid cross-contamination.

Can I cross-pollinate different varieties of coleus plants?

Yes, you can cross-pollinate different varieties of coleus plants. This can lead to new and unique color combinations.

What should I do if my coleus plant isn’t producing seeds?

If your coleus plant isn’t producing seeds, it may not be properly pollinated. Try manually pollinating your plant and see if that increases your yield.

In conclusion, pollinating your coleus plants can increase your yield and lead to stronger and more resilient plants. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your coleus plants are properly pollinated and producing a bountiful harvest.