To hand-pollinate a pear tree, dab pollen from blossoms onto other blossoms; don't be too gentle, and losing a few petals is fine.
The referenced video demonstrates manual pollination. This is done to increase fruit yield, especially if natural pollinators are scarce. Here's a breakdown of the process based on the video excerpt:
- Collect Pollen: (The video excerpt doesn't show this step, but it's implied). Pollen can be gathered from a different pear tree variety or even a crabapple tree, as some varieties are compatible and can act as pollinators. The video excerpt skips to assuming you already have pollen.
- Transfer Pollen: "Around spot some more blossoms dab that pollen around some." This involves taking your pollen-laden tool (such as a small brush or cotton swab) and gently dabbing it onto the stigma (the female part) of the flower you want to pollinate.
- Be Thorough (But Not Too Rough): "More you don't have to be too gentle." Make sure you get pollen on multiple blossoms. The quote "There nothing's going to happen if you lose a few pedals it's no big deal" indicates some petal loss is acceptable when transferring pollen.
Important Considerations for Pear Pollination:
- Pear Tree Pollination Requirements: Most pear trees need a different variety of pear to cross-pollinate effectively. Make sure you know what variety your pear tree is and plant a compatible pollinator nearby.
- Timing: Pear trees bloom in spring. Pollination is most successful when the flowers are freshly opened and receptive.
- Tools: Use a small, soft brush, cotton swab, or even your finger to transfer the pollen.
- Natural Pollinators: Wind and insects (especially bees) naturally pollinate pear trees. Hand-pollination is primarily necessary when these natural factors are insufficient.
- Weather: Avoid hand-pollinating during wet or windy weather, as this can reduce the pollen's effectiveness.
