How do flowers become fruits?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.The process of flower to fruit transformation starts after successful pollination. The pollen grains land on the stigma and develop tubes to reach the ovary. Fertilization occurs when the male cells unite with the ovules to form seeds. This biological process occurs, and hormonal changes are initiated, triggering the signals to initiate fruit development. Had the pollination not occurred, the flowers would have wilted and fallen to the ground.
Pollination Success
- Cross-pollination requires compatible varieties flowering simultaneously
- Insect activity increases pollination rates by 70% compared to wind
- Hand-pollination techniques ensure fruit set in protected environments
Hormonal Triggers
- Auxins stimulate ovary wall expansion after fertilization
- Gibberellins promote cell division during early fruit growth
- Cytokinins regulate nutrient flow to developing fruits
Ripening Process
- Ethylene gas production initiates color and texture changes
- Sugar concentration increases as acids break down
- Cell wall enzymes soften fruit for seed dispersal
The right conditions during the fruiting phase will influence quality and yield. Maintaining even soil moisture conditions will help prevent blossom end rot, while potassium will aid in sugar storage. The optimal temperature range is from 65-85°F (18-29°C) to maximize enzyme activity. I gained twice as many melons by having 75% soil moisture and using potassium sulfate.
Plants redirect energy during the fruiting process. Photosynthesis increases to fuel metabolic growth while root growth slows. Nutrients are redistributed from leaves to developing fruits. Remove excess foliage to improve light penetration into the crown of the tree, but never prune more than 30 percent of the foliage in one operation. Such a system of energy distribution produces larger, sweeter fruits.
Read the full article: 6 Plant Growth Stages Explained Simply
