What are the reproductive parts of a flower?

Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Flowers contain specialized sexual organs that enable the plants to survive. The stamens are the male parts that produce the pollen grains. The female parts, known as the pistils in the flower, receive the pollen for the production of seeds. The two systems work together through a remarkable process called pollination. When you understand these systems, you can improve the productivity of your garden.
There are two essential parts to stamens. Anthers produce pollen by cell division. Filaments serve as supporting stalks for the flowers. Grains of pollen contain male genetic material. The patterns on their surfaces are characteristic of certain flowers. This aids in getting compatible pollinations.
The structures of the pistil are the stigma, the style, and the ovary. The stigma traps pollen with its sticky surfaces. The style allows pollen tubes to grow downward. The ovary contains ovules that will be fertilized. Once pollination occurs, seeds will begin to develop inside.
Pollination Methods
- Biotic: Insects birds or mammals transfer pollen
- Abiotic: Wind or water carries pollen grains
- Self-pollination: Same flower fertilizes itself
Fertilization Steps
- Pollen germinates on compatible stigma
- Pollen tube grows through style tissue
- Sperm cells fertilize ovules in ovary
Reproduction in flowers directly influences the amount of fruit produced. After fertilization, the flower ovary becomes a fruit. The fruit protects the developing seeds inside. Apples, tomatoes, and cucumbers grow in this manner. Your harvest depends on successful pollination.
Encourage pollination in your yard. Grow native flowers to attract local butterflies and bees, also, plant for continuous bloom. Avoid using pesticides during bloom time. These measures provide food for maintaining natural reproduction cycles. Your plants will give you abundant returns of fruits, vegetables, and grains.
Read the full article: Understanding Flower Reproductive Parts and Functions