How to Pollinate Golden Goddess Plant:
Increase Your Yield

If you’re looking for a plant that’s easy to grow and produces a high yield of delicious fruit, the Golden Goddess is an excellent choice. This variety of tomato plant is known for its sweet flavor and large, golden-yellow fruits that are perfect for salads, sandwiches, and snacking.

One way to boost your yield with this plant is by pollinating it properly. Pollination is the process by which pollen from the male flower is transferred to the female flower, which then produces the fruit. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about pollinating your Golden Goddess plant to maximize your yield.

Understanding Flower Anatomy

Before we dive into the pollination process, it’s important to understand the anatomy of a tomato flower. Each flower has both male and female parts, but they are not self-fertile. That means they need help from bees or other pollinators to transfer pollen from one flower to another.

The male flower has a long, thin stem called a filament, which supports the anther at its tip. The anther contains pollen grains that are released when the flower is mature.

The female flower, on the other hand, has a bulbous base called the ovary, which eventually develops into the fruit. Above the ovary is a structure called the stigma, which receives pollen from the male flower.

Hand Pollination

Hand pollination is a simple and effective way to ensure proper pollination of your Golden Goddess plant. It involves transferring pollen from the male flower to the female flower manually.

To hand-pollinate your plant, follow these steps:

1. Identify a male flower that is fully open and has visible pollen grains on its anther.
2. Gently remove the petals from the male flower to expose the anther.
3. Use a small brush or cotton swab to collect pollen from the anther.
4. Locate a female flower that is ready for pollination. The stigma should be sticky and receptive to pollen.
5. Gently brush the collected pollen onto the stigma of the female flower.

Repeat this process for each female flower on your plant every few days to ensure a consistent yield.

Encouraging Natural Pollination

While hand pollination is effective, it can be time-consuming if you have a large number of plants. Luckily, there are several ways to encourage natural pollination in your garden.

1. Attract bees and other pollinators by planting flowers that they love, such as lavender or marigolds.
2. Avoid using pesticides that can harm bees and other pollinators.
3. Shake the tomato plant gently every few days to help release pollen from the male flowers.

FAQ

What time of day is best for hand pollination?

The best time for hand pollination is in the morning when the flowers are fully open and the air is cooler.

Can I use a different type of brush for hand pollination?

Yes, you can use any soft-bristled brush or even a feather to collect and transfer pollen.

Is it necessary to remove the petals from the male flower before collecting pollen?

No, it’s not necessary, but it can make it easier to access the anther and collect pollen.

How long does it take for a tomato fruit to develop after pollination?

It usually takes about 30-45 days for a tomato fruit to develop after pollination.

What should I do if my Golden Goddess plant isn’t producing fruit?

Check that your plant is getting enough sunlight, water, and nutrients. You may also need to hand-pollinate or encourage natural pollination by attracting more bees to your garden.

By following these tips for pollinating your Golden Goddess plant, you can increase your yield and enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet, juicy tomatoes. With a little bit of effort, you’ll be able to savor the delicious taste of your homegrown tomatoes all season long.