How to Pollinate Coral Bells Plant:
Increase Your Yield

Coral bells, also known as Heuchera, are a popular perennial plant that produce stunning flowers in a range of colors. As a gardener, you can increase your yield by understanding how to pollinate coral bells plants. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of pollination, methods of pollination and tips for successful pollination.

Benefits of Pollination

Pollination is the process by which pollen from male flowers is transferred to female flowers, leading to the production of seeds. There are several benefits to pollinating coral bells plants:

• Increased yield: When coral bells plants are pollinated, they produce more seeds and therefore more plants.
• Improved flower quality: Pollinated coral bells plants produce more robust and healthy flowers.
• Genetic diversity: Pollination introduces genetic diversity into the plant population, which can lead to stronger and more adaptable offspring.

Methods of Pollination

There are two main methods of pollinating coral bells plants: natural pollination and hand pollination.

Natural Pollination

Natural pollination occurs when bees, butterflies, or other insects visit the flowers of coral bells plants. These insects carry pollen from one flower to another as they feed on nectar. To encourage natural pollination, plant coral bells in an area that is attractive to pollinators. This can be achieved by planting a variety of flowering plants that bloom at different times throughout the year.

Hand Pollination

Hand pollination is a more deliberate method of pollinating coral bells plants. It involves transferring pollen from the stamen (male) to the stigma (female) using a small brush or cotton swab. Hand pollination is useful when you have a limited number of plants or want to ensure that specific plants are cross-pollinated.

To hand-pollinate coral bells plants, follow these steps:

1. Identify the male and female flowers. Male flowers have a long, thin stalk with pollen at the end. Female flowers have a shorter stalk with a sticky stigma at the end.

2. Collect pollen from the male flower using a small brush or cotton swab.

3. Transfer the pollen to the stigma of the female flower, gently rubbing it in.

4. Repeat this process for each flower that you wish to pollinate.

Tips for Successful Pollination

To ensure successful pollination of your coral bells plants, follow these tips:

• Pollinate during the right time: Coral bells plants typically bloom in late spring or early summer. Make sure to pollinate your plants during this time when they are actively producing flowers.
• Choose healthy plants: Choose plants that are healthy and free of disease or pests. This will increase the likelihood of successful pollination and improve the quality of your yield.
• Use clean tools: Use clean tools when hand-pollinating to avoid introducing any bacteria or diseases into the plant.
• Be patient: It may take several attempts to successfully pollinate your coral bells plants. Be patient and keep trying until you achieve the desired results.

FAQ

Can I use a paintbrush instead of a cotton swab for hand pollination?

Yes, a paintbrush can be used instead of a cotton swab for hand pollination.

How many times should I hand pollinate my coral bells plants?

It is recommended to hand pollinate your coral bells plants 2-3 times during their blooming period.

Can I still get a good yield without pollinating my coral bells plants?

Yes, you can still get a good yield without pollinating your coral bells plants. However, pollination will lead to increased yield, improved flower quality, and genetic diversity in your plant population.

In conclusion, pollination is a crucial process for increasing the yield and quality of your coral bells plants. Whether you choose natural or hand pollination, following the tips outlined in this article will help ensure successful pollination and a bountiful harvest.