WARNING: Bumblebees – Keep them Cool this Summer!
We all know that proper pollination of a flower is the most critical process related to fruit set, yield, and quality, but are you clear on how hot climate conditions impact on both the pollinator and the plant, and the interactions between them? Koppert’s White Paper on Plant-pollinator interactions in high temperatures – written in collaboration with experts in the field of pollination - now clearly points out the effects of high temperatures on pollination.
‘In the past, we have always observed the impact of temperatures on the pollination activity of our bumblebees. It was now time to complete the equation by looking into the effect of hot climate conditions on plant behaviour, and the combination of plant-pollinator interactions,’ says Remco Huvermann, Product Manager Pollination at Koppert Biological Systems.
The White Paper written on this subject in collaboration with horticultural consultant Godfrey Dol is now available.
Plant-pollinator interactions
In cold climates, it is assumed that proper management of pollinators is sufficient to ensure good pollination. The single biggest problem is that if there is not enough strength in the plant, the setting may be poor. Growing in warm climates opens up a whole set of problems that can affect yield and quality. Management of temperature, humidity, and radiation is therefore essential for both plant and pollinator.
The White Paper also provides a useful ‘summary of actions to protect both plants and pollinators in high temperatures’