Open Pollinated Meaning

Open Pollination Definition (noun): A natural process of plant reproduction where pollination occurs without human intervention, typically facilitated by wind, insects, birds, or other animals; known for promoting genetic diversity and adaptability within plant species.

Open Pollination

Open pollination occurs when plants reproduce through natural mechanisms, such as wind, insects, birds, or other animals. In this process, pollen from the male part of one flower (anther) is transferred to the female part (stigma) of another flower, resulting in fertilization and the production of seeds. These seeds carry the genetic information from both parent plants, leading to offspring that are genetically unique.

Open Pollinated Plants

Open-pollinated plants have the potential to be “true to seed,” but this outcome isn’t guaranteed due to the inherent nature of open pollination, which allows for natural and uncontrolled cross-pollination. When open-pollinated plants are grown in proximity to different varieties within the same species, there’s a significant chance for genetic exchange, which can result in offspring that carry a mix of traits from both parent plants.

See more on these nuances in our true to seed article.

Naturally Occuring Open Pollination vs Control and Cultivation

In horticulture, there’s a delicate balance between plant cultivation and seed saving practices relative to open-pollination. The practice of maintaining a plant’s ‘true to seed‘ quality requires controlled conditions, which can seem contrary to the open pollination aspect.

Let’s unpack this apparent contradiction:

1. Open-Pollination: This term refers to plants that are pollinated by birds, insects, wind, or other natural mechanisms. The ‘open’ aspect of open-pollination implies that the process isn’t controlled by humans, as opposed to controlled pollination techniques used in developing hybrid plants. Open-pollinated plants can develop adaptations to local growing conditions and show greater biodiversity.
2. True to Seed: When a plant is “true to seed,” the seeds produced will result in offspring that are predictably similar to their parent plants in phenotype. This is crucial for gardeners and farmers who rely on consistent characteristics, such as flavor, size, yield, and resistance to diseases, from one season to the next.
3. The Need for Controlled Conditions: The contradiction arises because, while open-pollination is a natural process, ensuring that an open-pollinated plant remains true to seed requires avoiding cross-pollination with different varieties. This isn’t about creating a sterile environment but rather about maintaining genetic purity for specific plant characteristics. In a diverse garden or natural setting, plants can cross-pollinate unpredictably, leading to offspring with a mix of traits that may not be desirable for a gardener or farmer seeking consistency.
4. Balance and Biodiversity: It’s important to note that this control isn’t contrary to biodiversity. Many seed savers and organic gardeners value both the preservation of certain plant characteristics (ensuring plants are true to seed) and the promotion of biodiversity. They might isolate certain plants to save pure seeds while also growing a diverse array of species and varieties to support a healthy ecosystem.

Controlled environments may seem contradictory to “open pollination”, however, these practices are part of a larger effort to balance human needs and preferences. The larger, sweeter, juicier fruits that have been cultivated by humans are considerably more edible and desirable than most of the wild cousins of origin.

In horticulture, it’s an ongoing practice towards achieving the desired plant and fruit traits with the natural tendencies and benefits of open-pollination for genetic diversity and adaptability. So the challenge for gardeners and farmers is to manage their plantings mindfully, considering both their goals for their crops and the health of the broader ecosystem.