Improve Pollination and Fruit Set – Nutritional Agronomy Note

Bees and insects play an important role in the transfer of pollen grains from flower to flower Spring is in the air and thoughts turn to blossom, bees and a helpful breeze for pollination. Successful pollination is vital, with bees and insects playing an important role in the transfer of pollen grains from flower to flower in all fruit. The growth of the pollen tube to the ovary is crucial for successful fertilisation and fruit set, and it is important to note that this should not be left entirely to mother nature. Flowers with low auxin levels have poor pollen tube growth, leading to reduced fertilisation and fruit set. THE IMPORTANCE OF AUXINS The application of an auxin dominant product such as Kelpak® will increase auxin levels in flowers resulting in better pollen tube development and growth, with better fertilisation and fruit set. Trials have shown that application of Kelpak® during flowering can significantly improve pollen tube growth rates and fertilisation success. Three sprays at 7 day intervals will help ensure that the fruit set process is successful.