Pollination
 

I just pollinated for the first time! Whats the success rate of actually getting seed for germination?

Seed viability is unpredictable at such an early stage.

I'd worry more about the seed pods being able to reach maturity first. ;)

Actually...now that I think of it...

You gotta be concerned about whether the pollination will take or not, before thinking about the seed pods being able to reach maturity.

Even though you pollinate a flower it doesn't mean it will form a seed pod.

...and even though a capsule may form, there may be no seed inside...

...and even if there is seed, they may not be viable. :shock:

I don't mean to paint an ugly picture, it just is what it is. I've found some Dendrobiums to seed like crazy and some just refuse. I've never messed with Bulbos.

The timing (age of flowers) can also come into play. I try to pollinate a flower once it has fully opened but still fresh. Pollen age doesn't seem to matter as much but it may. Sorry so vague. :(

It's okay! I have more than enough seed that I have bought, I just got it into my head that pollination requires more complex procedures, but I guess the flasking is really the most complex. Lol. Hopefully I'll get at least one seed pod that's viable! I have never germinated my own seed before. But it's trial and error I guess! Thanks everyone!

Mary,

How's it looking? Are they greening up or swollen around the stigma?

Royal,

The flowers are closing up, but I don't see any seed pods growing. But it's okay.

Depending on what you pollinated (I'm guessing you pollinated a Phal), this is normal.

The first sign to look for is the closing of the stigmatic opening.

The second sign is to look for the swelling and/or shortening of the column.

Then there's the elongation of the ovaries, followed by either the drying of the sepals and petals or the thickening of them (to form leaf-like structures).

From there on I think you can figure it out.

If it's a Phal or any Vandaeceous plant you pollinated, it will usually take a very long time.

I tried a phal in this case. I buy my other seed, thank you so much! I will be patient. I only wanted to test the waters. :D

Hybrid Phals. can usually be harvested in 3 to 4 months, so when it gets to about this time, watch the pod carefully (everyday) for signs of yellowing or splitting. If it's a species Phal. it could take up to 1 year in certain instances, depending on the specific species involved.

It's best to harvest the pod before it actually splits, but when it's already "ripe". That's why it's necessary to watch the pod for changes in color. In many instances, even if there is no change in pod color, hybrid Phal. pods, harvested at 4 months, and then sewn as a "green pod" will eliminate the need to sterilize the seed (just sterilize the pod, cut open the pod, and scrape the seeds into the flask). Saves a lot of time and extra work, and germination is equally good (sometimes better because the seeds don't have to go through the sterilizing process).