Self-polinating plants

[Shawn]

I was looking at placing my orders for this year and wanted to plant some apple trees and some more raspberry plants. I started looking at the order and saw all the plants said "self-polinating." If they self polinate do they offer anything for the bees? If not, where do I find some plants and trees that are not mutated?

[MrILoveTheAnts]

Self Pollinate means you don't need another variety of the plant to bloom at the same time and pollinate the plant. Most apples actually can't pollinate themselves, that is  use their own pollen to produce fruit. They still require pollination by bees, but don't need another variety of the plant.

If you have the room though go ahead and get more varieties anyhow. They all ripen and bloom at slightly different times and you may get a longer harvest.

[Shawn]

Thanks for the info. Im going to start ordering my stuff.

[Scadsobees]

Also, unless you are planting a 1/2 acre or more, the amount of pollen and nectar from a few raspberries or apple trees is negligable compared to what the bees actually need.

I have some cherry and apple trees that I have lots of bees on in the spring, but the bees would thrive just as well without them. 

Rick

[Shawn]

I know there is no way I could plant enough plants or trees living in town but I thought I sure could help out.