Articial hybridization is one of the major approaches for crop improvement programme. In such crosses it is important to avoid unwanted pollen.

Question

Artificial hybridization is one of the major approaches for crop improvement programme. In such crosses it is important to avoid unwanted pollen. 

(a) Explain how can we protect stigma from unwanted pollen.

(b) How artificial pollination can be performed?

Answer 1

(a) It is covered with a bag of suitable size, to prevent contamination of its stigma with unwanted pollen. This process is called bagging.

(b) (1) Anthers are removed before the dehiscence of anther of female parent that bears bisexual flowers. This step is called as emasculation.

(2) It is covered with a bag of suitable size, to prevent contamination of its stigma with unwanted pollen. This process is called bagging.

(3) When the stigma of bagged flower attains receptivity, mature pollen grains collected from anthers of the male parent are dusted on the stigma, and the flowers are rebagged, and the fruits allowed to develop.