How to Pollinate Obedient Plant:
Increase Your Yield

Introduction

Obedient plant (Physostegia virginiana) is a beautiful perennial flower that is native to North America. Its unique characteristic of staying in place when moved earns it the name “obedient.” This plant is not only pleasing to the eye but also attracts pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. However, if you want to maximize your yield, it is essential to understand the process of pollinating obedient plants. In this article, we will explore various methods to help you increase your yield.

Understanding the Pollination Process

To begin, it is crucial to have a basic understanding of the pollination process in obedient plants. Obedient plants are primarily pollinated by insects, particularly bees and butterflies. These pollinators are attracted to the bright pink or white flowers that obedient plants produce.

When an insect lands on a flower, it brushes against the stamens, which are the male reproductive organs that hold the pollen. The pollen then sticks to the insect’s body as it moves around the flower. When the insect visits another flower, some of this pollen rubs off onto the stigma, which is the female reproductive organ. This transfer of pollen initiates fertilization and leads to seed production.

Natural Pollination Methods

Obedient plants have evolved to rely on natural pollinators for reproduction. By creating an environment that attracts these beneficial insects, you can enhance natural pollination and increase your yield. Here are some methods to consider:

1. Plant Native Flowers Nearby

By planting native flowers that attract bees and butterflies near your obedient plants, you can create a pollinator-friendly environment. Native flowers like coneflowers (Echinacea), bee balm (Monarda), and milkweed (Asclepias) are excellent choices for attracting pollinators. The presence of these flowers will encourage bees and butterflies to visit your garden and, in turn, pollinate your obedient plants.

2. Provide a Water Source

Bees and butterflies require water to survive, especially during hot summer months. By providing a water source in your garden, such as a birdbath or a shallow dish filled with water and pebbles, you can attract these insects to your obedient plants. The presence of water will not only keep the pollinators hydrated but also make your garden more appealing to them.

3. Avoid Pesticides

Pesticides, even those labeled as bee-friendly, can harm beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. When using any form of pest control in your garden, it is essential to consider the potential impact on pollinators. By opting for natural pest control methods or carefully selecting pesticides that are safe for pollinators, you can ensure that your obedient plants remain a welcoming environment for these beneficial insects.

Manual Pollination Methods

If you want to take a more hands-on approach to pollinating your obedient plants, manual pollination is an effective method. This method involves manually transferring pollen from the stamens to the stigma. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Identify the Stamens and Stigma

Before you begin manual pollination, it is important to identify the stamens and stigma on obedient plant flowers. The stamens are typically long and slender, while the stigma is located in the center of the flower and has a sticky texture.

2. Collect Pollen

To collect pollen, gently tap the stamens with a clean brush or cotton swab. This will cause the pollen to stick to the brush or swab.

3. Transfer Pollen

Once you have collected pollen, carefully transfer it to the stigma by gently rubbing the brush or swab against it. This will ensure that the pollen comes into contact with the female reproductive organ, initiating fertilization.

4. Repeat the Process

To increase your chances of successful pollination, repeat the process on multiple flowers. By transferring pollen from different plants, you can enhance genetic diversity and potentially improve the quality of your yield.

Conclusion

Pollinating obedient plants is a simple yet crucial step in increasing your yield. By understanding the natural pollination process and implementing methods to attract pollinators, you can create an environment that maximizes seed production. Additionally, manual pollination can be a useful technique for those looking to take a more proactive approach. Whether you choose to rely on natural pollinators or manually pollinate your obedient plants, the key is to ensure consistent and effective transfer of pollen. With these methods in mind, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of obedient plant seeds in your garden.