Self pollinating zucchini

[Murphyd]

I have a zucchini plant that lately is only producing male flowers (I think). If I were to pick the male flowers and remove their pollen, would I be able to save it in a jar and use it to pollinate the female flowers when they decide to start blooming again? I'm self pollinating because we don't seem to have any bees around.

Thanks!
Murphy

[chris]

Yes, you can - they can store for a week oddI think in a jar of water in the fridge.. I've done it in the past.

Bees aren't the only pollinators - you probably do have them around just haven't seen them! Countless other insects (not only flying ones!) will pollinate for you.

edit: welcome to the forum!

[Flummery]

They eventually produce male and female flowers at the same time. I wouldn't think it was worth the bother of saving the pollen. Male flowers are always produced first. Blokes are always eager!

[Aberdeenplotter]

Blokes are always eager!

ermhh koffsplutter

[Aberdeenplotter]

Now that I've recovered my decorum, yes, there does always seem to be a profusion of male flowers to start with but before long the female ones will be there as well. Always at the last minute aren't they

[perkin]

Always at the last minute aren't they

Isn't it said that it's a lady's prerogative to keep people waiting?

[chris]

I'd just say they were idle

[Flummery]

Are you looking for a ding around the lug, lad?

Edit - I just remembered that it was me that started this!

[Alison]

I wouldn't bother saving them, you'll end up with both sets of flowers together anyway. I wouldn't bother fiddling with them either, unless you're growing in a totally controlled atmosphere with no insects then there will be something around to do the pollination.