How to Hand Pollinate and Grow Food Anywhere

Last updated on September 22nd, 2019 at 09:53 pm

Like many gardeners, I’m extremely drawn to the appeal of growing fruits and vegetables indoors. Whether it’s because the weather just isn’t cooperating, or if you’d like to have better control over pest control, indoor gardening can be great! Unfortunately, our good ole’ friends, the bees, can’t exactly pollinate our flowers! Don’t let that dissuade you! Here’s how to hand pollinate, and grow delicious vegetables ANYWHERE.

TIP: Squash, and cucumbers often have pollination problems even if grown outdoors. This guide will help ensure that you get the right amount of veggies!

To hand pollinate, dip a paintbrush into the center of the male flower (here’s a guide that helps you tell the difference between males and females). Similar to the way pollen sticks to the furry bodies of the bees, the pollen sticks to the bristles of the paint brush.

After the pollen sticks to the paint brush, drop it onto the center of the female flower. After the pollen is dropped onto the female, the hand pollination process is finished!

I’m sure you’re shocked at how easy the process was, because I certainly am (don’t let that trick you into thinking that we don’t need the bees!)

Pollinating fruit trees follows the same process, but this article from Gardening Know How can help shed a light if you are still uncertain!