Hello LariAnn,
The pollen is only viable for two days when stored dry & refrigerated? I have read of pollen of other types of plants being viable for millions of years. Umm That makes this a bit more difficult, right? HEHE! I am still going to collect from each of my plants to try to combine color schemes with later blooms. Can only have 2 outcomes(success or failure), so what is there to loose. Thanks for the advice on how to manage this.
Noel
EDIT: In my continued research of this pollination & propagation, I learned that the pollen of caladiums is wet which would explain its short viability time. I also found your name mentioned on the site LariAnn Garner. Is there a possibility of storing the pollen at lower temperatures to guard the viability of the pollen? Also, it is likely I am going to miss my chance to do this in this set of Inflorescence since I have to leave the country for 3 days, & taking my plants with me just is not an option. Gotta love visa requirements.
http://hortsci.ashspublication...
Edit: LariAnn, I thought you might be interested in reading this study done on the pollen of caladiums which honestly simply confirmed your prior statements. The reading is interesting though, & may offer some ideas of how to increase germination of the pollen on application to your plants. I am hoping mine are still blooming when I return next week. I also got the other variation of what I think is a thai hybrid with a strap leaf. Photos to come in the morning when there is light.
