How long does pollen last?

[Laserbeak]

I imagine the pollen from a dead orchid flower is still good for a while, I am wondering how long and how to store it?

Thanks.

[POLKA]

Laser

I'm sorry, but with orchids, the pollen is as fresh as the flower it comes from, ... or maybe less, ... and often a lot less. Sometimes pollen in never any good at anytime, though the plant could become the pod parent. They are not always fertile both ways. These are just quirks in the family.

You need to check and see what color FRESH pollen is for the genus you are talking about.

And then, if the pollen masses from a spent flower are that good, then use it, or store it, folded in waxed paper, or plain paper, and stored cool and dry.

(That's what you need to do from a fresh flower, btw.)

If it ain't that good, plump, and colored -- drop the idea. You don't need to waste your time on something that will disappoint you.

Hoping to help
Take care
Rex

may all your orchids bloom like crazy!

[Laserbeak]

It's a phalaenopsis if that helps. The pollen sacks should be bright yellow if I remember correctly.

[Ryan Young]

You can collect only the pollinia, in a piece if folded paper and keep in fridge for several months.

[Cym Ladye]

Originally Posted by Ryan Young

You can collect only the pollinia, in a piece if folded paper and keep in fridge for several months.

Cym. pollinia can be successfully frozen for long periods. I have not had experience with other genera.

CL