Observations on the pollination of apple trees (Malus sylvestris Mill.)

Abstract

Insect visitation and pollination of the apple tree varieties Granny Smith, Kidd's Orange Red, and Golden Delicious were studied during the blossoming period in the Henderson and Warkworth districts near Auckland. The only pollinating insects observed on the trees were honey bees and negligible numbers of Bombus terrestris Linn, and long-tongued bumble bees (unidentified). Fruit set was very low on Granny Smith apple trees caged to exclude bees.

Although density of honey bees per 30,000 flowers was greater than was previously found in Nelson, percentage pollination of apple varieties studied was somewhat lower. Certain orchards might benefit if hives were brought in for pollination.