Pollination Requirements
In order for fruit to develop, pollination must occur at blossom time. Pollination is the transfer of pollen from the male part of the flower to the female part of the flower. Some types of fruit trees may be pollinated with their own pollen and are considered self-fruitful (may need another tree of same variety) or self-pollinating (no need for a separate pollinizer).
Other types of trees require pollen from a different variety of the same type of tree. The transfer of pollen from one variety to a different variety of the same type of tree is called cross- pollination. Cross-pollination is essential for apples, pears, most sweet cherries, and most Japanese plums.
Pollen is primarily transferred by honeybees. Trees placed more than 100 feet away may result in poor pollination. Bees work best when temperatures are above 65oF. Cool weather, rain or winds may prevent bees from leaving their hives. Most pesticides are toxic to bees and should not be used during bloom time.