Hand Pollination for Squash, Cucumbers, and Watermelon
Channel: Botanical Interests
Date: 2017-09-12

Cucurbits have both male and female flowers on the same plant, and each looks different. Female flowers have a miniature fruit at the base of the flower, and a shorter stem compared to the male flower. Male flowers have a longer stem and typically appear first in the season, theoretically to attract pollinators.

Once you identify which flower is male and which is female, you can hand-pollinate. Pull the petals back or off of the male flower, exposing the pollen on the stamens. Using a paintbrush or a cotton swab, gently, but thoroughly, wipe the pollen and then place it onto the central female flower part, known as a pistil. You can also just cut off the male flower and use it as a paintbrush to pollinate several female flowers.

Continue to pollinate throughout the growing season, as flowers will keep appearing. And after hand-pollinating, there isn't much more to do than sit back and watch your fruit grow!