Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a popular herb that is well-known for its medicinal properties. It is not only used for culinary purposes but also has a range of health benefits. However, for gardeners, the most important aspect of growing yarrow is to have a good yield. Pollination is a vital process that helps in achieving a high yield. In this article, we will discuss how to pollinate yarrow plants and increase your yield.
Pollination is the process of transferring pollen from the anther (the male part of the flower) to the stigma (the female part of the flower). This process is essential for fertilization and the production of seeds. In the case of yarrow plants, they are hermaphrodite, which means they have both male and female reproductive parts in the same flower. However, yarrow plants are self-incompatible, which means they cannot pollinate themselves. Therefore, they need cross-pollination from other yarrow plants or insects.
Hand pollination is a straightforward process that can be done by anyone. Here are some tips that will help you in hand pollinating your yarrow plants.
Choose flowers that are fully open and have matured.
Wait for a sunny day when there is no wind or rain.
Take a small paintbrush or cotton swab and gently brush it over the anthers to collect pollen.
Transfer the pollen onto the stigma by gently brushing it over the surface.
Repeat this process with all the flowers on your plant.
Attracting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other insects to your garden can significantly increase your yield. Here are some tips to attract pollinators to your yarrow plants.
Plant flowers that attract pollinators like marigold, zinnia, and sunflower near your yarrow plants.
Provide a source of water for pollinators.
Avoid using pesticides and herbicides that can harm pollinators.
A: Yes, you can use a Q-tip instead of a paintbrush or cotton swab. The important thing is to make sure that you transfer the pollen from the anther to the stigma.
A: You should hand pollinate your yarrow plants at least once a week during the flowering season.
A: Yes, you can grow yarrow plants indoors, but they need plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil.
Pollination is an essential process for increasing the yield of your yarrow plants. Hand pollination is an easy process that you can do yourself, and attracting pollinators to your garden can significantly increase your yield. By following the tips mentioned in this article, you can ensure that your yarrow plants have a healthy yield and bloom beautifully.