Can flowers reproduce without insects?

Many plants successfully reproduce without insect help through abiotic (wind or water) or self-pollination. The grasses, corn, and tomatoes are examples of this type of pollination. Each has developed certain adaptations that permit it to reproduce successfully without the aid of pollinators.

Self-pollination is another method to avoid insects. Flowers place their pollen in their own flowers. This occurs in tomatoes, peas, and peanuts. Their sexual structure positions stamens near stigmas. This adaptation allows pollen to be placed directly where it is needed without outside assistance.

Plants that are pollinated by wind have some distinctive characteristics. They have no brightly colored petals and do not produce nectar rewards; instead, they make huge amounts of pollen. Their stigmas often have feathery surfaces that "catch" pollen as they are carried through the air. Collectively, these adaptations conserve the energy that would have been used to attract insects for pollination.

Water-polluted species have different issues. Pollen must be able to withstand water degradation or damage. Some species release pollen while submerged, while other species utilize surface tension to release pollen. The pollen of eelgrass has a form of dispersal similar to underwater snowflakes. These systems are all specialized adaptations of a life cycle in aquatic habitats.

Gardeners can aid in the process of abiotic pollination by by planting wind-pollinated vegetables in open areas. Place self-fertilizing vegetables in clumps. Maintain humidity around the plants that require watering for fertilization. Avoid obstructing air currents around trees and grasses. This will assure regular seed production in your garden.

Read the full article: Understanding Flower Reproductive Parts and Functions