Orchids have pollen, but it’s not the free-floating variety common to many other types of flowers. Instead, orchid pollen is sticky and remains in its pollen packet until a pollinator, such as a bee, whisks it away. However, the pollen remains stuck on the pollinator; it never has the opportunity to drift in the air.
Well, most orchids do produce nectar, and indeed, it’s thought that around two-thirds of this amazing family make nectar and pollen to encourage insects to come and pollinate their flowers. As the insect drinks the nectar, it picks up pollen that can be used to fertilize another orchid.
What is the relationship between orchids and their pollinators?
But orchids typically have exclusive relationships with their pollinators. These are usually bees, wasps, and flies, but many orchids also utilize moths, butterflies, fungus gnats, or birds to cross-pollinate their flowers. While the ways that various species entice pollinators to visit their flowers.
Then, why do orchids have flowers?
The reason orchids have flowers is for reproduction, and in many cases, pollination is the means of propagation. Insects, birds and even mammals can transfer pollen from orchid blossoms to other areas to instigate the growth of new orchid plants.
One thought is that insects, birds and even mammals can transfer pollen from orchid blossoms to other areas to instigate the growth of new orchid plants. However, gardeners with allergies and anyone interested in orchid reproduction will find that orchid pollen is surprisingly different than pollen from many other types of flowers.
As the insect extends its proboscis (elongated mouthpart) to drink the nectar, pollen is deposited onto the body of the insect. When the insect visits the flowers of another orchid of the same species, it transfers the pollen and fertilises the flower, which leads to the production of seeds.
Do orchids cause allergies?
In sensitive people, exposure to airborne pollen triggers a cascade of seasonal allergy symptoms, sometimes called hay fever, such as a runny nose, sneezing, and itching. Some of the most common causes of pollen allergy include: Do Orchids Have Pollen. Orchids have pollen.
If you have a pollen allergy, fear not: orchids pose no problem. You can even sniff an orchid to enjoy its fragrance without worrying about pollen triggering your allergies. Because the pollen is sticky and hidden in pollen packets, it’s nearly impossible to come into contact with orchid pollen unless you do so on purpose to propagate your orchids.