Hybridizing African Violets
The flower from the other plant — from which the seed pod will form — should be a relatively young flower that has been open for about two to four days. Look for the stigma, which is the tip of the single narrow tube called the style in the center of the flower that usually points away from the pollen sacks.
The stigma upon which the pollen will be placed will be sticky at this time, which enables the pollen to stick to it. Carefully apply the opened surface of the pollen sack from the donor flower (male component) to the tip of the stigma of the receiver flower (female component) so that the pollen adheres to it. Repeat this procedure for several flowers on one plant to enhance the chances of a successful cross. |