There are two types of pollination. Self-pollination occurs when the pollen is transferred from the anther to the stigma on the same flower, from another flower on the same plant, or from a flower on another plant of the same variety. Many plants cannot produce fruit from their own pollen and are considered self-unfruitful. These plants require cross-pollination for fruit set. Cross-pollination is the transfer of pollen from one plant to the flower of a genetically different plant or variety.
Pollination is an important factor when selecting and planting tree and small fruits.
A list of pollination requirements for the various fruits is presented below. Most apples are self-unfruitful. A few varieties, such as Jonathan and Golden Delicious, set a good crop without cross- pollination. Generally, however, plant at least two different varieties for maximum production. Few apricot varieties are reliably hardy in Iowa.