Quantifying the pollen production of Okra plant in local area

Abstract

Flower production significantly influences the pollen production. Pollen production is to be determine primarily on a per flower basis. Therefore, increased pollen production might be in term of number of pollen grain per another although plant is generally known to produce a large amount of pollen there may be some variation in pollen production per flower. The okra flower is 4-8 cm in diameter with five white to yellow petals often with a red or purple spot at the bases of each petal and the flower withers within one day the flower structure combines hermaphroditism and self-compatibility flower bud appear in the axis of each leaf above 6^th To 8th leaf depending upon the cultivar flower bud initiation. Flowering anthesis and stigma receptivity are influenced by genotype and climatic factor like temperature and humidity.

The present study investigates the pollen production potential of Abelmoschus esculentus (okra), an important vegetable crop widely cultivated in India. Flower samples were collected from healthy plants during early morning hours to ensure maximum pollen viability. Pollen productivity was estimated following the method of Nair and Rastogi (1963), using undehisced anthers suspended in glycerine and counted microscopically. Results revealed that okra flowers produced a high density of well-formed, viable pollen grains with an average pollen production of 55.2%. The uniformity and abundance of pollen grains indicate robust reproductive health and a strong potential for successful fertilization and fruit set. These findings are significant for crop improvement, hybrid seed production, and the selection of high-performing cultivars in breeding programs. Future research on pollen storage and pollination biology is essential to optimize okra yield and enhance breeding efficiency.