A study on pollination of lupins (Lupinus angustifolius)

Abstract

Mean yields of seed from lupins (Lupinus angustifolius) were significantly greater from plots to which bees and larger insects had access than from plots from which these insects were excluded. There was no difference in the mean germination and weight of 1000 seeds from open and closed plots. Bees collected appreciable quantities of pollen from lupin flowers and the nectar gathered allowed colonies to build up to swarming point and store surplus honey. Wind pollination of lupins seems to be negligible but self-pollination is important. Bee activity on lupins makes them important agents of cross-pollination. Economic factors of seed price and cost of hire of bees are important in determining the feasibility of hiring bees for pollination of lupins.