How to Pollinate Dragon Fingers Plant:
Increase Your Yield

Dragon Fingers plant is a unique and exotic fruit that is slowly gaining popularity in many parts of the world. However, the plant is self-incompatible, meaning that it requires cross-pollination to produce fruits. In this article, we will discuss how to pollinate Dragon Fingers plant to increase your yield.

What is Dragon Fingers Plant?

Dragon Fingers plant (Horned Melon) is a native of Africa and belongs to the cucumber family. The fruit has a unique appearance, with a bright orange outer shell covered in spikes or horns. The inside is filled with green seeds surrounded by a jelly-like pulp that is edible and has a sweet and tangy taste.

Why is Pollination Important?

Pollination is the transfer of pollen from the male flower to the female flower, which leads to fertilization and fruit development. Dragon Fingers plant requires cross-pollination to produce fruits because it has separate male and female flowers on different plants. Without pollination, the plant will not produce any fruits.

How to Identify Male and Female Flowers?

Identifying male and female flowers of Dragon Fingers plant is crucial for successful pollination. Male flowers have a long, slender stem with no fruit at their base. They also have stamens with yellow anthers that produce pollen. On the other hand, female flowers have a short stem with a small fruit at their base. They also have a stigma or pistil in the center that receives pollen.

How to Pollinate Dragon Fingers Plant?

There are two methods of pollinating Dragon Fingers plant: hand pollination and natural pollination.

Hand Pollination

Hand pollination involves manually transferring pollen from the male flower to the female flower using a small brush or cotton swab. Follow these steps for successful hand pollination:

1. Identify male and female flowers.
2. Collect pollen from the male flower using a small brush or cotton swab.
3. Gently transfer the pollen to the stigma or pistil of the female flower.
4. Repeat this process daily until the fruit sets.

Natural Pollination

Natural pollination involves relying on insects such as bees to transfer pollen from the male flower to the female flower. Follow these steps for successful natural pollination:

1. Plant several Dragon Fingers plants close to each other to increase the chances of cross-pollination.
2. Create a bee-friendly environment by planting flowers that attract bees around your Dragon Fingers plants.
3. Avoid using pesticides that can harm bees and other pollinators.

When is the Best Time for Pollination?

The best time for pollination of Dragon Fingers plant is in the morning when the flowers are fully open and active. It is also recommended to do hand pollination early in the morning before the bees start their work.

FAQ

1. How long does it take for Dragon Fingers plant to produce fruits?

Dragon Fingers plant takes approximately 90-120 days to produce fruits after germination.

2. How many fruits can one Dragon Fingers plant produce?

One Dragon Fingers plant can produce up to 20 fruits per season.

3. Can I eat Dragon Fingers plant leaves and stems?

No, Dragon Fingers plant leaves and stems are not edible and may cause stomach upset if consumed.

4. How do I know when Dragon Fingers fruit is ripe?

Dragon Fingers fruit is ripe when the outer shell turns yellow-orange, and the spikes or horns become soft to the touch. The fruit should also have a sweet aroma.

5. Where can I buy Dragon Fingers plant seeds?

You can buy Dragon Fingers plant seeds online or at your local garden center.

In conclusion, pollinating Dragon Fingers plant is essential for increasing your yield. Whether you choose hand pollination or natural pollination, it is important to identify male and female flowers and to do the pollination in the morning when the flowers are fully open. With proper care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of this exotic fruit.