Pollination involves the transfer of pollen from the male stamen of the flower to the female pistil and results in the setting of seed. To produce fruit, many garden plants require pollination, which is generally done by insects, bees, and wind. Some plants, such as tomatoes and raspberries, can pollinate themselves; these are called self-fertile or self-pollinating. Self-sterile plants require pollination from another plant or another variety; examples of those needing cross-pollination include sweet cherries, pears, and most nut trees.
Check for compatibility. Always check with the nursery to see if the variety you want to grow as a pollinator is compatible with your other plants.
Make sure that your compatible plants will flower at the same time so that the pollen will be available.
Mix peas and beans. Plant some sweet peas (the flowers, not the veggies) near your pole beans. The plants will climb together, and pollinating insects attracted by the pea flowers will fertilize the beans.
Separate sweet and hot peppers. If cross-pollination occurs, you may find your sweet peppers become too hot to handle.
Shake your tomatoes. Even though tomatoes are self-fertile, they need help releasing their pollen. Just shake the plant or its stake to ensure the transfer of pollen.
If you’re using a floating row cover to protect your vegetables from pests, remove it when the plants are in flower so that pollinating bees can do their work.