Are Orange Blossoms Self-Pollinating?

Orange Pollination

• Self-pollination is a somewhat misleading term. Pollination is the transfer of pollen from the male sex organ, or anther, of one flower to the female sex organ, or stigma, of the same or another flower. In some flowers, such as apples and pears, the stigma only accepts pollen from a different variety of apple or pear. This means that a flower on a Golden Delicious apple tree can't be pollinated by pollen from any Golden Delicious apple tree. Orange trees have what are called self-pollinating, or self-fruitful, flowers. The stigma of an orange tree flower can accept pollen from its own anther and does not require a different variety to achieve pollination. Even on a self-pollinating flower, the act of transferring pollen is not carried out by the flower. Pollination requires an outside source, like the wind, or more commonly, an insect.

Types of Pollinators

• Bumblebees and honeybees are the most well known pollinators, but there are several other insects that also carry out this critical function. Butterflies and moths are common nectar feeders and spread pollen as they flit from flower to flower. Beetles, like the ladybug, feed on pollen and insect pests. Some species of fly are nectar feeders and known pollinators as well.

Attracting Pollinators

• Use an array of techniques to attract pollinators to your orange trees. Plant several varieties of flowers. Mix natives and non-natives and plant flowers that bloom at different times throughout the spring, summer and fall. Leave a patch of bare ground for ground-nesting bees and wasps. A muddy patch of dirt can attract butterflies. Night-blooming flowers, such as the moonflower, can attract moths and even nectar-feeding bats to your garden and, ultimately, your orange tree.

Pollinator-Safe Pest Control

• Citrus trees are attacked by many pests. Some of them are controlled naturally by predatory insects, including ladybugs and wasps. But sometimes insecticides are necessary. These chemicals kill pests and pollinators alike and should be avoided whenever possible. If you do need to use them, make safe choices. Sprays that contain the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) only target caterpillars and are safe for humans, animals and beneficial insects. Horticultural oils and insecticidal soaps don't remain on the tree for long and are less likely to harm pollinators. Applying insecticides only before or after blooming can also help protect pollinators.