Persilangan buatan marigold

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to perform artificial crossing of marigold flowers. This technique is essential for plant breeders looking to create new varieties or improve existing ones through controlled pollination. Understanding this process can enhance your gardening skills and contribute to your horticultural projects.

Step 1: Preparing the Plants

• Select healthy marigold plants that you want to cross.
• Ensure that the plants are of different varieties to achieve hybrid vigor.
• Check that the flowers are in full bloom, as this is the best time for pollination.

Step 2: Identifying Male and Female Flowers

• Male flowers produce pollen, while female flowers develop seeds.
• Look for the following characteristics:
  • Male flowers have a thinner stem and are typically smaller.
  • Female flowers have a thicker stem and a swollen ovary at the base.

Step 3: Collecting Pollen

• Gently remove the anthers (the pollen-producing part) from the male flowers.
• Use a small brush, cotton swab, or your fingers to collect the pollen.
• Transfer the pollen to a clean container to keep it dry until use.

Step 4: Pollinating Female Flowers

• Select a female flower that is ready for pollination.
• Using the brush or swab, gently apply pollen from the male flower to the stigma (the receptive part) of the female flower.
• Ensure that the pollen is evenly distributed for better fertilization chances.

Step 5: Protecting the Pollinated Flowers

• To prevent unwanted cross-pollination, cover the pollinated female flowers with a mesh bag or a small paper bag.
• Label each bag with the date and the varieties involved in the cross.

Step 6: Monitoring Seed Development

• Keep an eye on the covered flowers over the following weeks.
• Once the seed pods form and mature, they will begin to dry.
• Harvest the pods when they are brown and dry.

Step 7: Sowing the Seeds

• After harvesting, gently extract the seeds from the pods.
• Store them in a cool, dry place until you are ready to plant them.
• When planting, follow standard germination practices for marigold seeds.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can successfully perform artificial crossing of marigold flowers, creating unique hybrids with desirable traits. Experiment with different varieties to see what combinations yield the best results. Happy gardening!