Pollination of apples and blueberries

Apple Tree Blossoming: A Fleeting Spectacle

At Vergers Petit et Fils, apple trees usually begin to blossom between May 18 and 20. In 2015, they started blooming exceptionally early—on May 16. This period, though stunning, is short-lived, lasting only three to four days.

• Each apple tree bud contains 5 to 6 flowers.
• On average, 15% of an apple tree’s blossoms will produce a fruit.

 

Pollination: The Crucial Role of Insects

Pollination involves the transfer of pollen from one flower to another, a task primarily carried out by bees. At Vergers Petit et Fils, several honeybee hives are installed—between 1 and 4 per hectare—to meet pollination needs.

• Honeybees are the main pollinators.
• Native insects, such as bumblebees and wild bees, also play an important role.
• To produce a well-sized fruit, a flower must receive pollen from 2 to 3 different sources.
• A sign of successful pollination is the falling of apple blossoms, indicating that fruit formation has begun.

 

Le Domaine du Flanc Sud: A Thriving Blueberry Field

Vergers Petit et Fils also owns a blueberry field located at Le Domaine du Flanc Sud. Blueberry blooming is just as abundant as that of apple trees and comes with unique characteristics:

• Blueberry flowers are shaped like a corolla, making pollen access more difficult.
• Only small bees (wild or domestic) can effectively pollinate them.
• Blueberry blooming occurs about a week after apple blossoms.
• Blueberry harvesting typically begins in early July—before apple picking season.

 

Honey Production: A Local Delight

The bee hives aren’t just for pollination—they also allow for honey production, made from apple and blueberry pollen.

• Honey is available at the Vergers Petit et Fils boutique, open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Take the opportunity to discover a variety of products at the cider house and treat yourself at the crêperie.
• For more information about activities and available products, visit auxvergerspetit.com.

 

FAQ: Common Questions About Pollination

Q: Why is pollination essential for apple trees and blueberries?

A: Pollination enables flower fertilization, which is crucial for fruit formation. Without it, the production of apples and blueberries would be significantly reduced.

 

Q: Which insects are responsible for pollination?

A: Mainly honeybees, but also wild bees and bumblebees.

 

Q: When do apple trees and blueberry plants bloom?

A: Apple trees typically bloom between May 18 and 20, while blueberry blooming occurs about a week later.