A colony can pollinate 1000 to 3000 square metres of crop for 6 to 8 weeks. The number of colonies required depends upon the type of glasshouse or tunnel, the season, the variety, the number of plants per square metre and the competition from wild flowers. One colony is sufficient for the pollination of 3,000 to 5,000 square metres during 6 to 8 weeks. The flower base will develop into a beautiful, smooth fruit. Thanks to the activity of the bumblebees, less deformed fruits are produced.
Bumblebees also work at low temperatures and under cloudy skies.
Fruit quality is improved and commercial yields increase substantially by using bumblebees for pollination. Bumblebees are less dependant on the weather during inflorescence. They are also impervious to the varroa mite. Orders must be placed by noon Friday for delivery the following week. We will e-mail you to confirm the order and advise of delivery date and shipping charges.