What triggers fruit development?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.The development of fruit begins when fertilization of the flowers occurs. The pollen fertilizes the ovules in the ovary, forming seeds that lie within the ovaries. The seeds at once exude the plant hormones. These hormones stimulate the tissues in the ovarian region to grow rapidly. Thus, the ovaries are changed into protective fruits. Your garden tomatoes and cucumbers go through this process.
Important hormones drive this transformation. Auxins from growing seeds stimulate cell division, while gibberellins enhance fruit enlargement and ripening. Cytokinins control nutrient flow into increasing fruits. The hormones must be balanced exactly right. Any disturbance in the balance can result in malformed or underdeveloped fruits.
Post-Fertilization Phase
- Ovary swelling begins within days
- Seed formation triggers hormone release
- Cell division increases fruit size rapidly
Maturation Phase
- Sugar accumulation in fleshy tissues
- Color changes indicate ripening
- Structural hardening in nuts and pods
Accessory fruits include non-ovarian tissue. Strawberries arise from the receptacle structures at the base of the ovary. Apples develop chiefly from the hypanthium tissue, which surrounds the heart. The tissues respond to the same hormones from the seeds. Only the seeds themselves are derived from fertilized ovules.
Gardeners can facilitate fruit growth. Satisfy full pollination of seeded varieties. Provide even moisture in the soil during growth. Supply sufficient balanced nourishment, avoiding excess nitrogen. Protect blossoms from late frosts. These practices result in similar hormonal responses to those that promote maximum fruit growth.
Hormonal efficiency is affected by temperature and light. Warm temperatures promote production. Cool nights promote the production of color and sugar. Full sun encourages fruit production. Awareness of these factors helps to produce better fruit. Your climate determines the time for planting.
This biological process links blossoms to yields. The successful act of pollination triggers hormonal cascades. The ovaries of the plants develop into nourishing fruits that provide sustenance for both wild and human life. The protection of pollinators is necessary to perpetuate this process. The garden is helpful in the food chains of ecology.
Read the full article: Understanding Flower Reproductive Parts and Functions
