Käsipölytys

Käsipölytys is the Estonian term for artificial pollination, a horticultural technique used to assist or ensure the fertilization of plants. This process involves manually transferring pollen from the male part of a flower (anther) to the female part of the same or another flower (stigma). This can be done to increase fruit set, improve fruit quality, or to hybridize plants.

In many cases, especially with self-pollinating plants, nature handles this process through wind, water, or insects. However, in certain situations, such as in greenhouses where natural pollinators are absent, or when attempting to cross-pollinate specific varieties for breeding purposes, manual intervention becomes necessary.

The technique typically involves using a small brush, cotton swab, or even a fingertip to collect pollen from an anther and then gently apply it to the stigma. For successful pollination, pollen must be viable and the stigma receptive. The timing of the procedure is crucial, as both pollen release and stigma receptivity are time-sensitive stages in a flower's life cycle. Käsipölytys is a common practice in the cultivation of various fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants, contributing to successful crop yields and the development of new plant varieties.